Black lump with pus near incision - should I be concerned? 2 years after breast augmentation (Photo)

Question

I Had a breast augumentation about 2 years ago and I had jist noticed this black lump and there is no pain and its very small but there is some pus as well.. should I be concerned?

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

The photo appears to show a small dark or irritated spot near hair-bearing skin, but the depth and exact cause cannot be determined from the image alone. A small lump with pus two years after breast augmentation can be something superficial, such as an ingrown hair, folliculitis, a small cyst, a stitch reaction, or a localized skin abscess. However, because it is near a breast augmentation incision and there is an implant present, it should not be ignored.

Please contact your operating surgeon, or another board-certified plastic surgeon if that is not possible, so the area can be examined. Do not squeeze it, and keep it clean and covered until you are seen. If pus continues, redness spreads, swelling increases, the breast becomes more painful or warm, there is bad odor, fever, wound opening, or any change in breast shape or implant position, you should be evaluated the same day or urgently.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi & thanks for your question. 
It may be a infected hair follicle. Reach out to your physician to have it checked. Best wishes!

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about recovery from breast augmentation.

For specific questions like this and about your recovery in general, it is best to speak directly with your doctor or doctor’s representative – such as his or her nurse, or the physician on call for the practice.
You will likely get many differing opinions from members of the RealSelf Community, but they have not personally seen or examined you. Nobody should know you or your unique set of circumstances better than your doctor. If you feel you are not being listened to or you are doubting your doctor’s recommendations, then it is certainly within your rights to seek a second opinion and get the advice from another board certified physician. This should be done through an in-person consultation with a thorough evaluation, including a review of your history, review of all prior treatment and with a physical examination.

Obviously, if you think that you are having a medical emergency or other serious problem, you should call 911 and/or go to your nearest emergency room.

Best Wishes.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

It would be hard to give a definitive answer without an examination.  Based on your photos, there is a black lump directly on your scar with some redness.  It is likely an ingrown hair, creating irritation, but may also be a clogged cyst from one of the many sweat glands in the arm pit.  I would recommend seeing your plastic surgeon for an examination.

Jose A. Munoz, MD · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!From your photo, I note dark material within a small elevated mass of the axilla at the previous breast augmentation incision site with minimal surrounding redness, suggesting either a clogged sebaceous (oil) gland of the skin with an early infection (you mention purulent drainage) or an extruding foreign body (suture material?). Rather than risk spread of infection with self manipulation, it may be best to revisit your surgeon for examination and treatment.Best wishes...

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Calm383,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a 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

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

If you have a black lump with pus near an incision site two years after breast augmentation, it could be a cause for concern. Here are some things to consider:

1.) Infection: The presence of pus and discoloration around an incision may indicate an infection. Infections can occur even years after surgery. Signs of infection may also include redness, warmth, increased pain, and fever.

2.) Hematoma or Seroma: A lump with a dark color could also potentially be a hematoma (a collection of blood) or a seroma (a collection of clear fluid) that has become infected. These can sometimes develop post-surgery.

3.) Scar Tissue: It's also possible that the lump is scar tissue or a keloid. Scar tissue can sometimes become raised or discolored. While scar tissue itself may not be an immediate cause for concern, if it's painful or causing other symptoms, it should be evaluated by a medical professional.

4.) Seek Medical Attention: Regardless of the exact cause, if you have any concerns about a lump near your incision, it's essential to contact your surgeon or a healthcare provider as soon as possible. They can assess the situation, perform any necessary tests or imaging, and recommend appropriate treatment.

5.) Delayed Complications: Complications from breast augmentation surgery can sometimes arise years after the procedure. These can include implant-related issues or problems with the surrounding tissue. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are crucial to monitor your breast health.

Please remember that only a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment. Don't delay in seeking medical attention if you're experiencing any concerning symptoms. It's better to have a thorough evaluation to rule out any serious issues and ensure your long-term health and well-being.

We would be happy to discuss this with you in more detail. Please visit us online to request a consultation or chat with our friendly appointment coordinators via live chat.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to either visit with your primary care physician or your surgeon for an evaluation.  This is likely a small cyst that can be managed with minor home care.  Best wishes.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have a small cyst. I would suggest seeing your medical doctor or your surgeon. You do not want this to become infected.

Black lump with pus near incision - should I be concerned? 2 years after breast augmentation (Photo)

Answers (9)

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