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

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

Thank you for the photo and the "cord" in question is probably a thrombosis vein and will resolve on its own though warm compresses and anti inflammatories may speed the processDr Corbin

A fibrosed and clotted vein that should resolve spontaneously.  We have all seen it occur and personally I have never had to treat one beyond applying tincture of time.  Regards,Jon A Perlman M.D., FACSDiplomate, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)ABC-TV Extreme Makeover SurgeonBeverly Hills, California

Congratulations....your diagnosis is spot on. This is seen occassionally after an incision in the fold of the breast and is a small vein that has clotted off and fibrosed. It poses no health risk.  I have never seen it need treatment, it has always resolved on it's own in a few months.