Hematoma After Breast Reduction Surgery

Hematoma is certainly one of the more common complications that can occur with breast reduction surgery. While there is no exact right answer, generally, if the involved breast is over 1.5 times the size of the other breast, I will typically drain this. More importantly, if I feel the hematoma will have a detrimental affect (wound healing,skin loss, infection) on the involved breast I will recommend a drainage procedure of some sort. This could be needle aspiration or an open procedure. A second opinion is worth while if you do not trust the answer you are getting from your surgeon.

Thank you for your question. A hematoma can be very mild or very pronounced in its presentation. A mild one may induce slightly more swelling and increased bruising and will likely resolve on its own. A more severe hematoma can result in dramatic asymmetry in terms of swelling, feelings of light headedness due to loss of blood, severe bruising, and can be rapidly growing. If you every experience the latter, then I would contact your surgeon immediately and if you have trouble, you may even go to the ER. Larger hematomas often have to be surgically drained.

         Hematoma formation
following breast reduction surgery can occur for a variety of reasons, but is
fortunately rare. When post-operative hematomas are small, they often resolve
spontaneously. Larger hematomas often require treatment to prevent secondary
complications. Treatment may include repetitive needle aspirations, CT guided
drain placement, or occasionally open surgical drainage.

 

         When large hematomas
are not evacuated there’s an increased potential for wound breakdown, infection
and scarring. These problems can ultimately impact the aesthetic result from
breast reduction.

 

         Since your left
breast is almost twice the size of your right breast, treatment is definitely
indicated. Early intervention will ultimately minimize the potential for
complications, improve your aesthetic result, and improve the quality of
recovery.