Does it seem like I have fat necrosis? 2 weeks post breast lift with implants. (photos)

Question

I got implants with breast lift I am 2 weeks post op. My dr. Has left the tapes on and are supposed to be removed this week. I have been noticing a slight smell on my right boob, today I saw it was leaking some fluid / dark maybe serous sanguineous seems to be. I can’t see what it is because there is tape covering it. I called my dr. Right away and I am seeing him tomorrow , but he mentioned it sounds like fat necrosis. I don’t know what to expect can someone explain

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Princessbananahamock,
on your photos, your breasts are covered and they don't show what is the cause of leaking fluid. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and could be contributing to that dark drainage you appreciate.  Fat necrosis occurs when blood supply is deficient to keep your fat alive and the fat dies and becomes a firm lump.  You do not appear to have that but my patients have found that warm compresses on the bruises help them go away faster.  You should let your surgeon know of your concerns so you can be evaluated and management adjusted if needed.

Leonard Tachmes, MD · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
From your photos, I can see a significant dressing and a small amount of drainage from beneath the tapes. The significance of the drainage is unknown. Surgical tape is quite porous and allows drainage to seep through. Without exposing the breast, one cannot determine if there is a significant problem or more likely just drainage from a spitting suture or small healing delay (both quite common). It is good that you will be seeing your plastic surgeon tomorrow. I ipredict he / she will be removing the dressing.
Fat necrosis: The blood supply to fatty tissue is somewhat limited. If a small area is stripped of its blood supply (during surgery), it may undergo liquification and leak from the incision as oily drainage (a possible source of the fluid). 
Best wishes...

Does it seem like I have fat necrosis? 2 weeks post breast lift with implants. (photos)

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Does it seem like I have fat necrosis? 2 weeks post breast lift with implants. (photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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