Is Drainage from Breast Lift Incision Normal?

Question

14 days post op and just started having a clear slightly bloody drainage from incision around nipple on breast that I had the Breast lift done on. No other signs or symptoms of infection. Any ideas? Also steri strips are still in place.

Michael Constantin Gartner, DO · Answer

While some drainage is okay, I suggest you see your surgeon to rule out any possible complications, such as hematoma or seroma.

Trevor M. Born, MD · Answer

Dear Jamie, a small amount of drainage from an incision can occur after any surgery.  In your case with an implant- please check in with your MD.  The drainage can be from a stitch, trauma to the site, a small bleed or an infection.
With Warm Regards,
Trevor M Born MD

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	The small amount of drainage from a breast lifting incision line is probably nothing to worry about;  however, it is best to be examined in person to rule out complications such as stitch abscess, infection, drainage of a seroma/hematoma...

	Best wishes.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon that a bit of fluid oozes from an incision a week or two after surgery. Of course you should review this with your doctor.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

After a breast lift surgery it is possible to experience a small amount of drainage. The most important step is to distinguish normal drainage from discharge that may suggest a much larger problem. If the drainage is yellowish or clear and appears along one small area of the incision, it is possible that this may be liquefied fat that is being expressed. This will soon stop and can be treated with local wound care and dressing changes. However if the drainage is dark or has a foul odor, it is essential to visit with your plastic surgeon as quickly as possible so that they may determine if the drainage is from a deeper collection of blood, fluid or an infection. Your plastic surgeon may recommend antibiotics or a small procedure to remove this excess fluid collection.

Peter A. Aldea, MD · Answer

Jamie,
Most likely, nothing to worry about.
But since you paid someone else with trained eyes to worry about such things, I would recommend you went back and should it to your surgeon. Let him/her check you out and reassure you.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi.
I recommend a sonogram to make sure you do not have a liquid accumulation (seroma) in your breast after the breast lift. Late drainage is not normal.   See your surgeon.

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

At your point of recovery, this doesn't sound surprising especially if you have no other signs of infection like redness, fever, or increasing pain. Best to go back and see your doctor soon and have it checked out.

Is Drainage from Breast Lift Incision Normal?

Answers (8)

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