A haematoma is a collection of blood that develops in the implant pocket, typically within the first hours or days after surgery, when a small blood vessel bleeds.
Signs
- Rapid, marked swelling of one breast.
- Increasing pain, tightness and bruising on that side.
- Asymmetry developing soon after surgery.
Treatment
A significant haematoma usually needs a return to theatre to drain the blood and stop the bleeding. Treated promptly, the outlook is good. Small haematomas may be monitored. To reduce risk, surgeons control bleeding carefully during surgery and advise avoiding strenuous activity and certain medications early on. A haematoma can slightly increase the later risk of capsular contracture.