Explant and lift on April 2, concerned about bleeding. PS said it was normal. Is this a common issue? (photos)

Question

I got an explant and lift today April 2 2019. I came home everything was fine and then I noticed I was bleeding from my left breast and it would pour down.it was bright red. I went to emergency and they stated it was normal, re bandaged me and sent me home. My surgeon has said the same thing. I’m just concerned with the bleeding and if this is a common issue? Please help!

Terence Goh, MBBS, MRCS(Ed), FAMS (Plast Surg) · Answer

Breast explant and capsulectomy surgery can be complicated by bleeding and in this case the bleeding is escaping through the incision. This is especially so when a capsulectomy is done instead of a capsulotomy. The capsule has to be dissected of the muscle and sometimes the ribs as well. Some bleeding from the incision is fine but active bleeding is not. Do check back early with your surgeon as he will be the best person to advise on the significance of the bleeding. It would be good to ensure that the breast drains are working and in a dependent position. You can apply pressure to both the incision and the chest area and most bleedings should stop. If it does not you should check in to the A&E to investigate if there is a hematoma under the breast. Ensure that you are not on blood thinners and medications that can cause bleeding.All the best! Get well soon!Dr. Terence GohPlastic Surgeon | AZATACA Plastic Surgery | Singapore

Luis A. Vinas, MD · Answer

Bleeding is always normal when you have a surgical procedure. Vessels and tissue were separated and cauterized. It is possible that a vessel that was cut and coagulated has began to bleed again, which can happen from blood pressure rising, movements using upper body muscle, etc. The blood will want to exit the path of least resistance, which is unfortunately through your incision. By sitting slightly elevated in a recliner and holding steady pressure without lifting up the bandage for 15-20 minutes should help the vessel coagulate naturally. I would make sure you keep your post operative appointments with your surgeon so he may monitor you closely.

Genevieve F. Caron, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questionIf the bleeding is active and not stopping, dropping I  do recommend you check again with you plastic surgeon. Best Wishes
Dr Genevieve FCaron, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Montreal, Canada

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Some oozing of a new incision is normal.  Active, free bleeding that does not stop with compression needs to be discussed with your surgeon.  I encourage you to contact him/her if the wound continues to bleed.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the problem you are experiencing. I am glad that you are keeping in close contact with your plastic surgeon who will be your best resource for accurate assessment, advice, treatment recommendations and/or meaningful reassurance. For other patients who have had (or plan to have) breast surgery: "pouring" bright red blood should not be considered "normal" after any type of surgery. This type of finding should be reported to the patient's surgeon who (again) will be the patient's best resource to determine whether or not he/she is experiencing a complication. Best wishes.

Julie Khanna, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Oozing after surgery is normal, however if it has continued or not slowed down in pace you need to check in with your surgeon.Best of Luck, Dr. K.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Bleeding is one of the more common risks associated with surgery and can happen, but usually does not. If you continue to bleed, please let your surgeon know. Also, please stay off of any blood thinning medications like aspirin and Motrin.

Explant and lift on April 2, concerned about bleeding. PS said it was normal. Is this a common issue? (photos)

Answers (7)

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