Brown fluid leaking from incision after breast lift no implants

Question

I am 3 weeks post op from a breast lift without implants. Suddenly my right breast started leaking dark brownish/reddish fluid (same as what was in my drains after tummy tuck). I soaked through 2 surgical pads in an hour. Unfortunately I'm a thousand miles away from my surgeon right now so I can't see him. I did speak with him and he acts like this is nothing to be concerned about unless it gets red and irritated. I don't see any openings in the incision but the leak was coming from a scabbed area.

Gustavo Almanzar, MD · Answer

Hello You should see an specialist about that...If it is an infection following breast augmentation is a serious complication that can result in patients losing their breast implants. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, drainage, pain, fever, and flu-like symptoms. When these symptoms occur they should be investigated aggressively. This may include laboratory studies, ultrasonography, and possibly fluid aspiration from the breast pocket for culture.Although your history is concerning, this fluid may suggest a normal inflammatory response which is frequently associated with wound healing. Although we don’t have the benefit of a physical exam, it could be  a normal postoperative course.It’s important that your seek for attention or port some photos in order to have a better idea. The best of luck

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I would recommend that you contact a surgeon near you to voice your concerns and have an examination since there are no photos posted.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear you're going through all this trouble. I would say that leaking of fluid can happen and is a sign that you need to see your PS again. One way to know if you have infection is to get wound cultures. If that has not been done you should return to your PS and get this done. You can also consider getting a second opinion from a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery wherever you are now. Best, Dr. ALDO

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, brown fluid drainage might be caused by old blood draining from the wound.  It is not possible to give proper advice whether this is resolving, or a significant problem, based on a description alone.  If you can't have a proper assessment from your surgeon it would be safest to seek medical attention closer to home.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You could have fat necrosis, or an old hematoma or seroma. You need to be seen in person by a surgeon to properly evaluate you.

Brown fluid leaking from incision after breast lift no implants

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