What are the hard lumps inside my breasts after explantation (saline)?

Question

I had my breasts explanted (saline). It's been about 20 days post surgery and I'm feeling some hard lumps inside them. What could they be? My breasts look fine on the outside.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Based on the timing after surgery, it is most likely swelling. Any lumps of the breast should be evaluated by your surgeon.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation.  It's not possible to determine the nature of the lumps without an examination.  Your surgeon is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

After breast explantation the capsule and associated tissue contract and you feel lumps.  This is natural.  These go slowly and should be gone after 6 to 12 months.  You are experiencing a natural phenomenon. Be patient and all will work out.  Be sure and see your surgeon.  My Best,  Dr C

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

At 20 days it could be some swelling, remnants of the capsule, fluid collections within the space, fat necrosis, or other things.  It's not possible via this forum to offer a diagnosis (safely).  You should contact your PS and let him or her know what's going on.  In the absence of acute signs (fever, chills, sweats, etc) it's not necessarily urgent but you should start with that.I hope that this helps and good luck,Dr. Alan EnglerMember of #RealSelf100@RealSelf

Susan Kolb, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

These could be fluid collections or fat necrosis.  Do you know if you capsule was removed completely.  If not, complications are common.  See the information online re explantation (I wrote the book on this).

What are the hard lumps inside my breasts after explantation (saline)?

Answers (5)