What is this? And what can be done to fix it? 6 months post op breast reduction. (photos)

Question

The majority of tissue was taken from my left breast. After trying to reach and stretch recently I've noticed a painful pulling feeling under my left breast. I looked in the mirror and found this. At first I thought it was a weird vein but that can't be it. I was told it may be an adhesion? Is there anything that can be done about it?? It goes pretty far down my rib cage.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You are correct, it is a clotted vein.  It is not at all unusually for this to occur, but you should notify your surgeon.  It is not dangerous, but your surgeon might want to put you on aspirin as a blood thinner as a precaution.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure. Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes an accurate assessment and advice. Although your photograph is hard to interpret, your description is consistent with inflammation of a vein below the breast (Mondor's vein). It is not uncommonly seen after breast surgery (although presentation six months after surgery is unusual).   If this is the case, treatment consists of warm compresses and the use of anti-inflammatories; you should see the “problem” resolve within a few weeks/months.

Again, best to follow with your plastic surgeon for in person evaluation/advice. Best wishes.

Robert Stroup, Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

You have developed a thrombosis (clotting) of a superficial vein under the skin.  This is not uncommon after breast surgery.  It was first described by Mondor and feels like a cord.  It is not in any way dangerous, and it will resolve on its own over time.  Treatment is aimed at helping with associated discomfort and usually consists of warm compresses and anti-inflammatories.

Good luck.

Larry Lickstein, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question, katievh91.  I agree with my colleague, that it is likely a Mondor's cord, or an inflammatory response of a superficial vein.  While they are seen more commonly after breast augmentation, they can be seen after any breast surgery, though usually they present earlier than 6 months.  The condition is not concerning and resolves with conservative care over time.  If the site is tender, you can treat with warm compresses and NSAIDs (advil, ibuprofen, motrin...).  I would encourage you to follow up with your surgeon for a more formal assessment.  Best of luck!

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

What you are demonstrating is a sclerosed vein which can occur following breast surgery around the chest and upper abdomen; treatment is taking aspirin, warm compresses, and it should completely resolve in one week or so.

What is this? And what can be done to fix it? 6 months post op breast reduction. (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Cord

Answer: Cord

Answer: Mondor's cord

Answer: Mondor's cord

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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What is this? And what can be done to fix it? 6 months post op breast reduction. (photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Cord

Answer: Cord

Answer: Mondor's cord

Answer: Mondor's cord

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.