Bruised sternum: It’s been 6 days since my surgery. (Photo)

Question

I only noticed today just how bruised my sternum is post op. Why does this happen? Once the bruising subsides should I expect to see more of a line between my new breasts? Thanks.

Keith Hodge, MD · Answer

Based on the on photo, you should be fine. A little bruising can occur with any surgery. Once the muscle relaxes and the implants drop, you will be happier with your appearance. The implants will move and will look closer together. Good luck!

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Some bruising and swelling is normal after any surgical procedure and from your photos this does not look alarming.  Your implants will take a few months to settle, giving you more cleavage and better shape and fullness. I usually have my patients start massaging about a week post op to help soften and settle the implants. I recommend following up with your surgeon for any questions or concerns.

Paul W. Papillion, MD · Answer

Hello, its not uncommon to have swelling and some bruising between your breast after surgery. I would recommend follow up with your PS for eval, but in general it's usually not a huge concern.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

it’s common to have bruising after breast implant surgery. This is likely the result of some red blood cells released from the vessels during surgery. Congratulations and good luck! Dr. Aldo

Christopher W. Chase, MD · Answer

It is normal to have bruising after surgery and sometimes it does not really show up for a few days afterward. This should resolve gradually with time and should not negatively affect the result. As time goes on the swelling and bruising will go down. Typically the breasts will soften and the implants will settle in, giving a natural result. Postoperative massage manaevers will help. Discuss this with your surgeon for their particular protocol. Thank you for the question.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

From the picture you posted, the bruising looks like it might be normal from surgery. When concerned, always a good idea to check in with your surgeon. At 6 days, you are only about 4 percent healed, settled, shaped, softened, dropped and fluffed.
Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

This is not unusual following a breast augmentation. Make sure your bra / garment is not too tight and if concerned best to contact your PS.

Frederick K. Park, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions and photo.Some bruising is totally normal after surgery. This is the result of some mild bleeding under the skin and will resolve with some time. A larger amount of blood collection known as a hematoma can be of concern but from this one photo, you do not have any evidence of this.It will take several months before your swelling subsides and you get a better idea of your final result. Swelling tends to mask contours so what you seek may be more visible as your swelling resolves.Congratulations on your surgery!

Kim Taylor, FRACS · Answer

This is quite normal, especially if your implants have been placed under the muscle.  Most of the colours of the bruising will be gone in 2-3 weeks, but the swelling & final result will not necessarily be finished for many weeks/months.Hang in there, everything appears to be fine for 6 days.  Take care.

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and photo.  Yes, bruising and swelling is common in the sternal area since it is between your breasts.   Once the implants have settled, you should have a crease as well.  Give it 3-4 months and follow up as directed, with your PS.

Bruised sternum: It’s been 6 days since my surgery. (Photo)

Answers (12)

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