Air in breast cavity after explant, is this normal?

Question

I am 9 days post op and I feel air in my breast cavity that moves when I move my arm up and down. Doesn't hurt, but I can feel and hear it. Can this air be aspirated (like liquid would be) or is the best route to wait for it to be reabsorbed? How long should this take? Does air retention pose harm? My Surgeon is aware and working with me - I am just antsy and searching for opinions. Thank you.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

hello chelskam You may hear and feel “sloshing” in your breast after surgery. This is not the implant! It is the air that is trapped in the space around the implant and the natural fluid that accumulates after an operation. The body will absorb it within a few weeks. #air #post-op

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon for there to be air pockets after this type of surgery.  They are generally handled by the body without incident over time.  Continue to follow the advice of your surgeon.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

It will be resorbed.  At this point it is too early to worry about and sticking a needle in the space is not needed.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Noises coming from the breast cavity after explant are quite normal. It takes a while for the pocket to collapse and heal.  Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Jeanette Padgett, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, it is normal to have some air in the pocket for several days after surgery.  The air is not harmful.  Gradually your body will absorb the air and there is no need to aspirate it.  As always, continue with the post operative recommendations of your plastic surgeon

Air in breast cavity after explant, is this normal?

Answers (5)