Hematoma

Hematoma After Breast Augmentation Surgery

A hematoma is a collection of blood in the surgical area.  Basically, it is a pooling of blood that escaped from the vessels and became trapped in the tissues of the skin.  First, there is frank bleeding into the space.  If the space is limited, pressure slows and eventually stops the flow of blood.  This forms a mass that can be felt, as is often painful.

Sometimes, these resolve without any surgical intervention, and other times, they require drainage.  To decrease your chances of developing a hematoma, you should not use aspirin or ibuprofen (or anything containing those drugs) for at least 2 weeks prior to (and after) your breast augmentation surgery, unless your surgeon instructs you to do otherwise.  Vitamin E and garlic supplements also thin the blood  These types of supplements can impair clotting. You don't want excessive bleeding after your surgery.  It can lead to an inflammatory reaction, which may increase your risk of capsule contracture.

You should inform your surgeon of all medications, herbal remedies, vitamins, and minerals you are taking.