Hematoma? My Dr. said it will dissipate. Should I ask to have it drained, apply heat/cold, or take vitamin E? (photos)

Dear Des10aBased on your pictures and previous posts, it is difficult to tell if you have a hematoma or just swelling at flanks. If you have a hematoma, although they do go away with time, they often leave internal scarring and even pain. They are generally drained. It may also be soft tissue edema from flank/side liposuction. If you had liposuction, then the sides might be harder and more swollen. Gentle pressure and massage of area under the direction of your surgeon help resolve edema faster.

In general, patient will do better if there is a sizable hematoma if it is drained. There is an increased risk of infection as well as prolong convalescence if the hematoma is treated expectantly.

It would be impossible to tell for certain from a
photograph whether you have standard postoperative swelling versus a hematoma
or seroma; therefore, it is imperative that you see your board-certified
plastic surgeon for evaluation. It is
possible that they may want to insert a small needle and attempt to aspirate,
which means to suction out some fluid to see whether is a hematoma or seroma
depending on the degree of suspicion of either problem. If that is case, they may choose to drain the
fluid or if it is small amount of fluid, sometimes the fluid is left alone as
your body may very well absorb it on its own. In any case, you absolutely see your surgeon about this. Best wishes to you!

It is my pleasure to answer your question. I usually drain hematomas. But you have to follow up what your surgeon recommends because he operated you and he knows all your process.

If the overlying skin is not affected by the presence of hematoma, observation, at least initially is often recommended.  The body can and often does dissolve and absorb the hematoma.  If in the process you develop a seroma or the skin shows sign of inflammation, evacuation of the hematoma or aspiration of the seroma would be beneficial.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

If the hematoma is small and stable it may resorb over time.  If it is larger then evacuation or drainage may be a better option.  I would avoid applying heat or cold as this could injure the overlying skin.  Vitamin E, in large doses, can increase the risk of bleeding and should be avoided as well.   Keep in close touch with your surgeon.  Let him/her know if there is any increase in the size of the hematoma, drainage, or signs of infection which may require exploration or drainage.