Complications After Surgery

1. Seroma
2. Hematoma
3. MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS
4. Lymphedema
5. Nerve Pain or Numbness
6. Infection
7. Tissue Necrosis
8. The level of care is excellent.
9. Discomfort and Pain after Surgery
10. Cosmetic Concerns
11. Contact Us Today
12. ABOUT US & EDUCATIONAL INFORMATION
13. CONTACT US

When it comes to any form of surgical procedure, there are always associated risks and possible complications. This is no different when it comes to breast surgery. Possible side effects to be aware of include the following:

Seroma

A seroma is a collection of clear fluid inside of the body following surgery. Following mastectomy, this fluid can collect between the skin flaps and the chest wall, resulting in swelling. If you have a large seroma, the fluid can be aspirated using a syringe and needle. Smaller seromas, such as those that form after partial mastectomy or sentinel node biopsy may resolve on their own. Some smaller seromas are aspirated for patient comfort. These aspirations can be done in the office.

Hematoma

Following breast surgery, there is a small risk of hematoma formation. A hematoma occurs when a collection of blood pools beneath the skin.  Smaller hematomas can resolve naturally, while larger ones may require surgical attention. Some can be managed in the office with aspiration while others require a return to the operating room.

Board-Certified Surgeon

MICHELE LEY, MD, FACS

Dr. Ley, a breast surgical oncologist in Tucson since 2006, delivers compassionate and personalized care to create tailored treatment plans based on the latest research. Specializing in surgical care for breast cancer and high-risk patients, she employs minimally invasive techniques and practices oncoplastic surgery to optimize outcomes.

More About Dr. Ley

Lymphedema

The removal of underarm lymph nodes as well as radiation can increase the risk of lymphedema, or the buildup of lymph fluid resulting in swelling of the arm, breast, chest, armpit, back, or trunk. At Tucson Breast Health Specialists, we are proud to provide resources for lymphedema treatment.

Nerve Pain or Numbness

Any surgical incision can cause numbness, particularly in the scar itself. After breast surgery, part or all of the breast can be numb, depending on the extent of the surgery. Following lymph node surgery, you may experience areas of numbness down the back of the arm and armpit. Following mastectomy, most patients have numbness over the central portion of the breast skin, including the nipple. While this may improve with time, it may be permanent in cases where some of the nerves that supply sensation are divided during surgery.

Infection

All surgical procedures carry the risk of infection. If you experience symptoms such as heat, redness, swelling, white or yellow drainage or increased pain around a surgical wound, be sure to let your healthcare provider know right away.

Tissue Necrosis

Tissue necrosis, or tissue death, occurs when the blood supply to the underlying tissues or skin is compromised. This may occur in cases where skin flaps in mastectomy are very thin. The affected tissue may form into a black scab that might need to be removed to let the healthy tissue heal. Sometimes this results in loss of the nipple and or areola after mastectomy or oncoplastic reduction. If you notice purple discoloration, black discoloration, scabs or blisters after breast surgery please discuss with your surgery team.

A condition called fat necrosis may also occur following partial mastectomy and/ or radiation in which damaged fatty tissues can form a firm lump or an oil cyst.  These lumps might need to be evaluated with imaging but rarely biopsy or surgery.  These may resolve on their own with time, but can be permanent.

“The level of care is excellent.”

I have no words to express my gratitude for Dr. Ley! I was diagnosed Feb. 2020 and Dr. Ley besides being the best in her field and doing an amazing job on my double mastectomy she was even able to save my nipples. She is also a remarkable human being, patient, kind very clear in explaining everything and making you feel heard and safe in her hands. I 100% recommend her and her very helpful, kind and amazing team! If you have recently been diagnosed this is the team you want to have your back!

Dr. Ley is extremely good at explaining your breast cancer, treatment options, and everything she is going to do. She is a masterful surgeon and uses plastic techniques to close incisions, leaving minimal scarring. In addition, she is warm, pleasant, and a lovely person. I am so happy that I found her based on a friend’s recommendation. I can’t say enough about her and the practice’s excellent care.

Dr. Ley is an excellent doctor who cares about her patients. She takes the time to explain everything and provides all options. The level of care is excellent.

Discomfort and Pain after Surgery

Short-term discomfort is to be expected following any form of invasive surgery. While this should resolve within a few weeks of your procedure, it is important that you inform your healthcare provider if you experience persistent pain. Pain right after surgery is best treated with anti-inflammatory medications and ice. Some patients may benefit from an enhanced recovery protocol. Speak to your surgery team about expectations for discomfort and pain care plan before surgery.

Cosmetic Concerns

Many women will have changes to their breast appearance following surgery and/ or radiation. With the use of oncoplastic breast surgery, these are usually not bothersome to the patient. Following lumpectomy or mastectomy, women may notice dents or distortions in their breasts. Some of these are normal and expected. If the cosmetic appearance is concerning for you, speak to your breast surgeon who may recommend options for treatment. Some minor dimpling can be alleviated with scar gel and massage. Other concerns may be better addressed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. If you have new changes in the appearance or feel of the breast after treatment has been completed, please discuss them with your surgeon.

Contact Us Today

If you have questions or concerns regarding possible side effects or complications following breast surgery, please do not hesitate to reach out to Tucson Breast Health Specialists in Tucson. AZ. We are dedicated to educating our patients so they can make empowered and informed decisions regarding their breast health.

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