Breast augmentation 10 weeks ago - at the 5 week post-op mark, plastic surgeon was unhappy with healing and performed a pocket revision for both breasts and bumped up implant size. Within 7 days I developed a mass of fluid below my left breast (size of half a baseball - red and really sore) but PS wasn't overly concerned and prescribed antibiotics and a wait and see approach. It's been 4 weeks and I still have swelling & pain. PS doesn't want to drain it for fear of risking infection. I am suspect of his approach - what to do?
Answer: Hematoma vs seroma Thank you for your question. A hematoma can be very mild or very pronounced in its presentation. A mild one may induce slightly more swelling and increased bruising and will likely resolve on its own. A more severe hematoma can result in dramatic asymmetry in terms of swelling, feelings of light headedness due to loss of blood, severe bruising, and can be rapidly growing. If you every experience the latter, then I would contact your surgeon immediately and if you have trouble, you may even go to the ER. Larger hematomas often have to be surgically drained. In your situation, your swelling could also be a seroma (inflammatory fluid). If the size and swelling is steadily decreasing in size, then it is reasonable to continue observing. Otherwise, it may need to be drained.
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Answer: Hematoma vs seroma Thank you for your question. A hematoma can be very mild or very pronounced in its presentation. A mild one may induce slightly more swelling and increased bruising and will likely resolve on its own. A more severe hematoma can result in dramatic asymmetry in terms of swelling, feelings of light headedness due to loss of blood, severe bruising, and can be rapidly growing. If you every experience the latter, then I would contact your surgeon immediately and if you have trouble, you may even go to the ER. Larger hematomas often have to be surgically drained. In your situation, your swelling could also be a seroma (inflammatory fluid). If the size and swelling is steadily decreasing in size, then it is reasonable to continue observing. Otherwise, it may need to be drained.
Helpful 4 people found this helpful
January 26, 2015
Answer: Postoperative Hematoma - What to Do
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January 26, 2015
Answer: Postoperative Hematoma - What to Do
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January 30, 2014
Answer: Hematoma Unfortunately, without a complete history and physical exam and through pre operative photography there is not enough information to make an informed plan, please consult your surgeon or another local board certified plastic surgeon
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January 30, 2014
Answer: Hematoma Unfortunately, without a complete history and physical exam and through pre operative photography there is not enough information to make an informed plan, please consult your surgeon or another local board certified plastic surgeon
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April 7, 2016
Answer: Hematoma after breast implant surgery must be drained.
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April 7, 2016
Answer: Hematoma after breast implant surgery must be drained.
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February 17, 2010
Answer: Fluid collection following implant removal and replacement This is a difficult problem to diagnose over the internet and it is hard to second guess the treating physician but based on your description, I would be compelled to drain the collection. One non-invasive option is to obtain an ultrasound to evaluate the mass. While it is possible that an exploration or treatment will result in possible infection, the alternative of not treating could lead to a higher rate of capsular contracture.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
February 17, 2010
Answer: Fluid collection following implant removal and replacement This is a difficult problem to diagnose over the internet and it is hard to second guess the treating physician but based on your description, I would be compelled to drain the collection. One non-invasive option is to obtain an ultrasound to evaluate the mass. While it is possible that an exploration or treatment will result in possible infection, the alternative of not treating could lead to a higher rate of capsular contracture.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
