Hematoma is a collection of blood or a blood clot from a leak in a blood vessel that may form within hours after surgery in the pocket where the implant has been placed. If this happens, swelling, pain, and bruising may result. Large hematomas may have to be drained surgically for proper healing. Surgical drainage may cause scarring, which is minimal in most women. Infection is a risk associated with any surgical procedure including insertion or removal of a breast implant and requires immediate medical attention.
Infections occur in a few percent of women receiving implants.
Most infections occur soon after surgery, but they can happen, although rarely, much later. If you notice signs of infection such as pain, redness, swelling, tenderness, fever, or drainage at the operative site, call your surgeon immediately. Infection after any type of surgery can be serious. If the infection does not subside promptly with the appropriate treatment, removal of the implant may be necessary. If that happens, a new device can usually be implanted after the infection has completely cleared.