A hematoma is a localized collection of blood outside of blood vessels, typically resulting from a ruptured blood vessel. In the context of post-surgical gynecomastia treatment, a hematoma can occur if blood vessels are damaged during the surgical procedure, leading to bleeding within the tissue.
After gynecomastia surgery, which involves the removal of excess breast tissue in males, the risk of developing a hematoma is heightened due to the manipulation of tissues. Symptoms of a hematoma may include swelling, pain, and discoloration in the surgical area. If significant bleeding occurs, it can lead to increased pressure within the tissue, causing discomfort and potentially compromising the healing process.
Management of a hematoma typically involves monitoring the area to assess for any increase in size or symptoms. In some cases, further intervention may be required, such as aspiration (draining of the collected blood) or even surgical revision if the hematoma is large or not resolving on its own. Post-operative instructions from the surgeon will often emphasize the importance of rest and avoiding activities that could contribute to bleeding or strain on the surgical site, thereby minimizing the risk of hematoma formation during recovery.