Air bubbles on reconstructed breast 5 months after. Is this normal? What could it mean?

Question

I had a breast reconstruction with Sientra implant following a mastectomy in October of 2016. Recently I have felt what seems like an air bubble at the 7 o'clock position. Is this normal? What could it mean?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi Cindy, Thank you for your question about an air bubble appearing 5 months after breast reconstruction after a mastectomy.  What you describe is not normal.  Often, right after breast reconstruction with an silicone breast implant, there are small air pockets around the breast implant. After several weeks, these air bubbles are absorbed by your body.   However, air pockets appearing 5 months after breast reconstruction is not normal.  I would suggest you call your plastic surgeon today and follow up as soon as possible.  If you have any more questions regarding breast reconstruction for cancer, please contact my office.  Sincerely, Dr. Katzen.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

There should not be an air pocket.  This area should be examined and if needed an ultrasound performed.

Air bubbles on reconstructed breast 5 months after. Is this normal? What could it mean?

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