I had explant and 9 days later almost died due to hematoma. Is this a rare case?

Question

9 days after explant, one breast swelled up, I was rushed to emergency surgery & was told it was a hematoma due to 1 of the blood vessels not dying when he cauterize it So he stitched the vein shut. Is this a bad Dr or am I just a rare case? Any insight would be helpful.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

The risks of bleeding are present for any surgery including explantation. Although uncommon, this can occur and should not reflect negatively on your surgeon.

Eric Wright, MD · Answer

Postoperative bleeding or hematoma is a known risk for all surgical procedures.  The risk is highest in the first 24-48 hours from surgery but is not zero until you are completely healed.  Having a hematoma does not mean anything was done wrong at the time of surgery.  It sounds like you were properly taken to surgery.  Hopefully your ongoing recovery it uneventful.  Certainly ask your surgeon any further concerns.Dr. Wright

Patricia A. McGuire, MD · Answer

It is unusual to have to return to surgery for bleeding after explant, especially 9 days after surgery, but does not indicate your surgeon did anything wrong. He/she treated you quickly and appropriately. If yout have a history of bleeding, you may want to check with your doctor.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear chuey1974,postoperative hematoma is one of possible surgical complications. Based on your photo, it looks like you had a big hematoma so it is good that you were treated on time. If you have any concerns, I suggest you to discuss them with your plastic surgeon. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the rare complication you experienced but am happy to hear that you are doing well now. Unfortunately, significant/serious bleeding may occur after any surgical procedure and is not necessarily an indication that your surgeon performed poorly.  Speak to your surgeon and see if he/she recommends a hematology workup (to see if you may have an propensity for bleeding complications). Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

This is a potential complication from surgery, but it is rare.  I'm glad you were able to have the bleeding addressed.  It is not necessarily an indication that your surgeon made an error.  Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

You are a rare case.  It is unusual to return to surgery for bleeding following explant surgery, but especially 9 days post op.  This complication does not indicate the surgeon did anything wrong.  Best to you for a complete recovery.

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I had explant and 9 days later almost died due to hematoma. Is this a rare case?

Answers (7)

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