Hard Lump Where My Drainage Tubes Were Post-BA- Will It Improve?

Thank you for the question.

The tissue reaction around the drains  will soften up over the course of the next few months and should not be an issue long-term.

I hope this helps.

You should also be able to feel that your incision is also firm--this is a normal part of the healing process, and complete softening occurs over many weeks and months as scar tissue matures.

Of greater concern to me is that drains were used in the first place. Was there so much bleeding that your surgeon felt compelled to stop surgery before all bleeders (even the small ones) were controlled and the pocket irrigated until clear? Blood and bacteria (even "normal" skin or ductal bacteria) are the two most common causes of capsular contracture. While that fluid or blood was draining out, there was a breach in your body (the drainage tube) along which bacteria could enter into the (otherwise sterile) pocket. Sort of like rats along a docked ship's hawsers (mooring ropes).

Since you are at 3 weeks post-op, you can begin gentle Vitamin E massage to help soften both your incision and the drain sites. Keep your scars out of the sun until completely faded (6-12 months), and if you note the onset of any firmness, see your surgeon immediately for consideration of Accolate or Singulair therapy (unproven but potentially helpful for early capsular contracture). Best wishes!

Hi Minna,

I recommend you have your PS examine you first before massaging area. If your surgeon is certain no infection is present, then rest assured that these 'lumps' will resolve on their own with time. Make sure you keep area clean and dry to accelerate healing. Best wishes, Dr. H