How do I know if I have a hematoma or just bruising? (photo)

You need to see your PS.  This amount of bruising is not normal.  The only way to determine if you have a hematoma is with an examination in person.Best,

If you are having swelling and pain that is asymmetric I would be worried about a hematoma and would not hesitate to take you back to the operating room

Thank you for your pictures.In my opinion some pf the patients bruse easily after surgery. You should be concerned if the bruise has changes as time passes by, if the bruise grows, expands then you should talk to your Doctor as this might be something to worry about.

That there is bruising is apparent in the photo. A hematoma can be easy to diagnose when large, as a size change is often apparent, and is usually accompanied by pain. A smaller hematoma is not likely to be diagnosable over the internet. A call to your surgeon is appropriate. Your surgeon will decide if you need to be seen urgently.All the best

Thank you for your question and photograph.  It is important that you see your plastic surgeon right away for an examination to determine whether you have a hematoma.  The photographs you show raise a series concerned that you may have a hematoma.  The sure to see your surgeon right away.