Acute Symptomatic Hematoma with Defined Etiology Seven Years After Breast Reconstruction: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Augmentation mammaplasty with implants can be complicated by hematoma formation. The majority of hematomas occur in the immediate postoperative period. There are, however, some reports of hematomas with a delayed presentation. These hematomas in the late postoperative period are rare, and many of these cases do not have a definitive mechanism of injury or develop symptoms immediately after the triggering event. A case of late capsular hematoma seven years after breast reconstruction with a saline implant following mastectomy is presented. In contrast to the majority of published cases, the patient presented with both a known and traceable cause of her bleed and with symptoms that developed immediately after the initial event. Furthermore, the mechanism of her injury was consistent with a bleeding capsular tear that was observed intraoperatively. The present case emphasizes the importance of thorough evaluation and management of patients with a history of breast reconstruction.