Why does it hurt after fat injecting in my chest? 3 months post op. (photos)

Question

Dear Doctors, On the last July I did a fat injection surgery in my chest due to a hole. About three weeks ago the area swelled up and became red. I visited the surgeon twice and he drained the area. The first drainage was carried out last Monday and another drainage was carried out yesterday In addition I am treated with antibiotics twice a day amoxicillin 875mg. I'm a little worried. Is this normal?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Based on your narrative you had fat grafting performed of your chest to help correct a contour deformity.  Unfortunately it sounds as if the area has recently been compromised with an infection requiring drainage by your surgeon and antibiotics.  It sounds as if you are receiving appropriate treatment and hopefully the transferred grafts have taken and are strong enough to resist the infection.  maintain close follow up with your treating physician in order to make sure your heal appropriately.

Kelly Killeen, MD, FACS · Answer

Well this certainly is not normal, but it is a potential complication of any surgery.  It sounds as if you developed an area of fat necrosis (fat that did not take) that may have become infected.  Areas of fat necrosis can be red and tender even in the absence of infection.  It sounds like your surgeon is treating you appropriately.

Why does it hurt after fat injecting in my chest? 3 months post op. (photos)

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Why does it hurt after fat injecting in my chest? 3 months post op. (photos)

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