I would like a second opinion: I feel this is a hematoma but the office says that it’s fine, what are your thoughts? (Photos)

Question

I am 9 days post op. There was a point where this breast was larger and more painful but that subsided early on. However, the breast just doesn’t look right to me. It’s been bruised and new bruises developed a few days ago. Now there’s oozing for two days intermittently. I’m just worried I have a hematoma and it’s not being managed appropriately.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

It does appear that you have a hematoma if the breast. I would take you to surgery and explore the area even if I wasn’t sure you have a hematoma. If you go to surgery and no hematoma is found there is no harm done. Best to be certain in a case like this.

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and sharing your photos. There is a significant size difference and one breast is larger. Drainage from breast augmentation incision 9 days post op is concerning. You could well have a hematoma. You should see your surgeon ASAP. Best,
  
Pejman Aflaki, M.D.
  
Johns Hopkins-trained double board-certified plastic surgeon

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. A hematoma after surgery may need to be drained surgically or can be observed. It really depends on the size and location of the hematoma, and whether it appears to be compromising your overall results.

Chris Funderburk, MD · Answer

I understand your concern. It's not possible to say from a photo without a physical exam. But I am always concerned when I see swelling or bloody drainage from a breast. If the area continues to expand, it is almost certainly a hematoma. Ask your provider if he or she has a diagnostic ultrasound at the clinic, or if they can send you to a fellow plastic surgeon who can check. That is one way to easily confirm if the exam is not diagnostic.

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and photo's.  It appears to be a large hematoma from what I can see.  I would go see your PS today and have him see it.

I would like a second opinion: I feel this is a hematoma but the office says that it’s fine, what are your thoughts? (Photos)

Answers (5)