Early Complications: Infection, Haematoma and Seroma

Infection, bleeding and fluid collection are the early complications most worth recognising. Prompt treatment usually gives the best chance of resolving them.

Infection

Bacteria can enter the wound or implant pocket. Signs include fever, spreading redness, warmth, increasing pain, swelling and discharge. Treatment may include antibiotics, drainage and, in some cases, removal of the implant so the infection can clear. Surgeons use sterile techniques and sometimes antibiotics to lower the risk.

Haematoma

A haematoma is a collection of blood around the implant. It usually occurs soon after surgery and causes rapid, often one-sided swelling, tightness and pain. Small ones may settle. Larger ones often need a return to theatre to drain the blood and control bleeding. Blood thinners, certain supplements and high blood pressure can raise the risk.

Seroma

A seroma is a build-up of fluid. Early seromas may settle or be drained. Fluid that appears long after surgery, especially more than a year later, needs prompt medical assessment, because it can occasionally signal BIA-ALCL. Do not ignore it. See BIA-ALCL and implant illness.

Red flags that need urgent care

Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing, chest pain, fainting, a rapid painful swelling of one breast, or skin that turns pale, blue or blistered. These can signal a clot, major bleeding or poor blood supply. Do not wait for a routine appointment.

Other early problems

• Wound-edge breakdown or delayed healing.
• Skin or nipple colour change, which may signal poor blood supply.
• Implant malposition.

Why follow-up matters

Some problems are easier to treat when found early. Keep your review appointments even if you feel well, and tell the team about any change in comfort, shape or wound healing. A photograph taken at the same angle can help you describe a change.

What to do

• Know your surgeon’s emergency contact before you leave.
• Report symptoms early rather than waiting.
• Go to emergency care if you cannot reach the team.

Do not try to drain a wound or collection yourself, and do not start leftover antibiotics without advice.

Questions to ask

• How do you lower the risk of infection and bleeding?
• What would trigger a return to theatre?
• Who covers the costs if I need further surgery for a complication?