Hematoma developed after my BA and lift 5 weeks post-op. What other complications should I expect?

Question

I had a BA and a lift on 6/6/2017. 350 cc round textured implant was placed under the muscle. On 7/10/17 I was at work and my right breast began to get very tight and started swelling fast. I couldn't even move or breathe. PS took me in for surgery 5 hours after the hematoma developed. PS said he has never seen a complication like mine in his 20 years of surgery. I'm scared. What other complications could occur and what precautions can I take to prevent further complications such as contracture?

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question!  It is uncommon to develop bleeding/hematoma that far from your surgical procedure. I commend you and your surgeon for discovering, but also getting treatment so expeditiously.  One of most common associations with  postoperative hematomas in your setting is capsular contracture. While unable to completely prevent it from occurring, there are some things that may be done to hopefully minimize the formation of it. I would discuss modalities with your surgeon, which may include restrictions, medications, and/or garments to be worn. With textured implants, your surgeon may not want you to massage/displace the breast implants, so I would follow-up closely and follow his/her instructions. Best wishes for a wonderful result!

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Inflammation caused by blood or bacteria can contribute to formation of a capsular contracture. Some medicines have been shown to reduce the risk of a capsular contracture forming. Speak with your surgeon about this possibility. To prevent further complications, etc. to follow your surgeon's instructions carefully. This complication will slow your recovery, but hopefully will not have any long term impact on your results.

Ary Krau, MD, FACS · Answer

It is unusual to develop a hematoma this late out, but not impossible.  They can occur.  Your plastic surgeon treated it appropriately.  You should be at no additional risk for any other complications.Good luck,Ary Krau MD FACS

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

Hematomas after breast augmentations are very uncommon. At 5 weeks following surgery and without apparent exertion, this is extremely rare. Fortunately, your plastic surgeon handled this quite professionally, appropriately and expeditiously. Going forward, you should follow his instructions completely. Avoidance of blood thinners for a few weeks may be a prudent choice in light of this situation. As for complications, another hematoma is possible though the risk is quite small. There may also be a slightly increased risk of you developing capsular contracture on that side.Steven Turkeltaub, MD

Hematoma developed after my BA and lift 5 weeks post-op. What other complications should I expect?

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Answer: Hematoma developed after my BA and lift 5 weeks post-op. What other complications should I expect?

Answer: Hematoma developed after my BA and lift 5 weeks post-op. What other complications should I expect?

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Hematoma developed after my BA and lift 5 weeks post-op. What other complications should I expect?

Answers (4)

Answer: Hematoma developed after my BA and lift 5 weeks post-op. What other complications should I expect?

Answer: Hematoma developed after my BA and lift 5 weeks post-op. What other complications should I expect?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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