Had hematoma drained yesterday. Should I worry that it might come back? My breast is still swollen today (Photo)

Question

Does this look like regular swelling after hematoma drainage???? I was awake for the whole thing and it was so traumatic! I was terrified and didn't get a Valium until after surgery. I'm worried its coming back and I've been a complete emotional mess over this whole situation.

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I'm sorry to hear that you had to have a hematoma evacuation. Chances are you're going to be fairly swollen after the pricedure, as your tissues may still be bruised and attract a lot of water. This should resolve more with every few days that passes by. If you notice that the swelling is only getting worse, then I would revisit quickly with your plastic surgeon.

Nana N. Mizuguchi, MD, FACS · Answer

Hematoma after breast augmentation is a known risk factor.  Prompt surgical evacuation should not alter the outcome.  Post surgical swelling is normal on the hematoma side but your breast should be soft.  Remember that the non-hematoma side is healing at a normal rate so the initial swelling from your first surgery will be less by now.  That is why you will see some asymmetry.Just keep your surgeon updated on your progress.Best wishes,Nana Mizuguchi

Stuart A. Linder, MD, FACS · Answer

It's rare for recurrent bleeding although possible. Seek the advice of your Board certified plastic surgeon

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and that you had your procedure.  If you had a visible bleeder and it was securely controlled, its very unlikely for anything else to occur.  If there was no bleeder appreciated, we always have some trepidation after closing but I've never seen a recurrence of breast hematoma in my personal experience.  As for some swelling, its normal and the key is that it remains stable and doesn't progressively enlarge as it did with your hematoma.  Remember, you uninvolved breast is now a few days ahead in terms of healing.

Joel Aronowitz, MD · Answer

I agree with the prior answers regarding hematoma and po swelling. It is often a good idea to place a drain after a hematoma is evacuated and  it doesn't look as though you have a drain.  It would be a good idea to see your doctor as an ultrasound of the breast will easily determine if you have fluid collecting around the implant versus post op swelling.

Michael A. Giuffrida, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

All looks as it should.  The hematoma and the blood stained tissues and skin causes a local inflammatory response exacerbating the bruising and swelling.  It will take slower to heal the hematoma side and it is possible longterm skin will appear a bit darker or assymetric.  Hematomas are known risk factors for breast augmentation.  The best thing you can do is take extremely good care of yourself, eat healthy, no tobacco, exercise ( once your surgeon approves it) and I would suggest lymphatic massage-seek a post surgica trained lymphatic massage therapist.  Call your local hospital OT department.  I incorporate MLD in all my post surgical patients.   You will do great! Be positive.  Be well!

Had hematoma drained yesterday. Should I worry that it might come back? My breast is still swollen today (Photo)

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