Dark spot in scar, what could it be?

Question

Im 4.5 post mastopexy. I had s hematoma complication in this breast. Ive had it drained 3 times now so hoping that it is now. I have noticed in the last few days these darker spots appear in my nipple incision. This was the breast with the hematoma. It was all around /behind the nipple. I sent pics to surgeon but he wont see it until Monday (its Friday afternoon here). Any thoughts on what it could be? There is some pain still in my breasts, especially this breast/nipple

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to say what a dark area along your incision could indicate without an exam or photos.  It could be a dried blood, retained areola, or something else.  Your surgeon should be able to guide you once the photos are reviewed.

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

Without an image it is difficult to conjecture with precision as to the cause of the color change. Recurrent bleeding is rare this far out, so the other possibilities are problematic wound healing, or infection. If you have redness and pain, infection is likely. If you can’t see your surgeon, go to urgent care to be evaluated for possible infection.

Rajaie Hazboun, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you Janegrace for posting your question here,I will start by stating that my answer is based on the limited information provided, for a more bespoke plan please consult with your plastic surgeon.
I am sorry to hear that you had to go through multiple drainage procedures, though uncommon , hematomas can occur, I hope you feel better soon.
When it comes to dark spots within the nipple scar it can be a number of things and it is hard to assess without examining you or at least looking at pictures. Just by virtue of their location and assuming that they are small in size , if I had to guess it could be a suture granuloma, or a suture that is yet to be absorbed that is trying to make its way out , that being said , I cannot definitively advise you on the matter without an exam .
I hope this helps, best of luck!

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

It’s not possible for me to give you meaningful input to your concerns without having at least a visualization with a photo. That said, the reactions of the tissues after a hematoma as well as the potential additional issues with sutures in the incision and how they could be affected by a hematoma that was drained three times, make this an issue which your plastic surgeon needs to evaluate as soon as possible. Best wishes.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You did not post a photo, so I cannot be specific. it might be some hemosiderin which is a product in blood that can leave a dark stain.  It might also be a stitch if it is in the scar.

Dark spot in scar, what could it be?

Answers (7)

Answer: Possible bruising, or stitch abscesses.

Answer: Possible bruising, or stitch abscesses.

Answer: Spot

Answer: Spot

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Dark spot in scar, what could it be?

Answers (7)

Answer: Possible bruising, or stitch abscesses.

Answer: Possible bruising, or stitch abscesses.

Answer: Spot

Answer: Spot

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.