Painful areola 6 months after breast lift. Is this related or not? (Photo)

Question

Jan 2024 had breast lift and now I have a white bump and not sure if it's related or not?

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

The photos show a small raised pink-white bump right along or near the areolar scar with some surrounding irritation. At 6 months after a breast lift, this can be related to the surgery if it is a spitting absorbable suture, localized scar reaction, inclusion cyst, blocked pore or gland, or a small area of irritation. It can also be unrelated to the lift, so the exact cause needs an exam.

Because it is painful, have your operating surgeon or a clinician look at it rather than trying to pop it or treating it only with creams. If there is drainage, increasing redness or warmth, worsening pain, fever, bad odor, or the area is enlarging, it should be checked promptly because a small infection or abscess may need treatment. If it is a retained suture or cyst, it may be a simple office treatment once the cause is identified.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! Keep an open communication with your plastic surgeon regarding your concerns. If you're unhappy with your results then we would be available to see you in person to evaluate and discuss revision options. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon to help you reach your goals!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Awesome856362,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gianfranco Frojo, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to see the permanent sutured used underneath the skin to want to come through the skin, especially if your surgeon used a GoreTex suture. Go back to see your surgeon.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

Yes, that area is likely either a small cyst or a suture granuloma. Either is very common in surgeries with large incisions, such as a breast lift, breast reduction, or abdominoplasty. I would see your treating physician or a board certified plastic surgeon. A steroid shot or possibly a small excision procedure could likely fix this problem.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

The remaining portion of your incision looks excellent, but this bump is not normal. Most likely it’s a small cyst or the knot from a stitch, but it should be addressed and your plastic surgeon should be made aware of it so that they can treat it.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Please see your surgeon. This may be a suture abscess that can be resolved with proper care by your surgeon.

Tek Przylecki, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Thank you for your question. Given the fact that the lesion is in the surgical area, and from the photo appears to be a cyst or small abscess, this is likely related to your recent surgery. I would recommend that you see your surgeon and have him/her evaluate you and address your concerns.Wishing you the best!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears you may have a cyst. If it does not settle down quickly, please visit with your plastic surgeon. You might need antibiotics.

Ufuk Erdem, MD · Answer

Suture reaction refers to a localized response by the body to the presence of sutures used during surgery. These reactions can vary in severity and presentation, but typically involve inflammation or irritation around the suture site. 
 Suture reactions can manifest as redness, swelling, tenderness, or itching near the sutured area. In some cases, patients may develop small, firm nodules called granulomas around the suture material.
 Reactions can occur due to several factors, including the type of suture material used (such as absorbable versus non-absorbable), individual patient sensitivity or allergy to certain materials, infection, or excessive tension on the suture line.
 The management of suture reactions depends on the severity of symptoms. I think you should consult your doctor. Because current condition may affects the quality of your postop scarring. Removing the sutures may be necessary. This procedure is typically straightforward and performed in a sterile environment to minimize the risk of infection.

Painful areola 6 months after breast lift. Is this related or not? (Photo)

Answers (13)

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