Is this normal or hematoma?

[JustDoIt]

This photo was taken on my 2nd day post-op. My left side seems to be pretty bruised but my right side is'nt. Both sides of my chest feel pretty swollen too, which I suppose is normal. I'm a little concerned about my bruising though. FYI, I had glandular excision only.

[Litlriki]

The photo is small and it's difficult to tell how significant the swelling is.  It certainly doesn't look like a huge amount of accumulated blood if it is a hematoma, but you should check with your surgeon if you're concerned, so that he or she can take a look.

Rick Silverman

[Dr. Elliot Jacobs]

The mere presence of bruising does not necessarily mean a heamtoma.  The body is capricious and sometimes there can be more bruising on one side than the other - while still being a normal post-op result.  That being said, the presence of bruising sometimes indicates that there was bleeding in that area.  However, a hematoma also is also usually accompanied by significant swelling and tenderness as well.

If you are concerned, then visit your surgeon.

Dr Jacobs

[JustDoIt]

Thank you Dr. Elliot Jacobs and Dr. Rick Silverman. I suppose it is'nt hematoma since there is'nt really significant swelling present. Probably just paranoia on my part!

[DrPensler]

I would agree with both comments.The only addition thing I would stress would be  it is unusual not to have some bruising after surgical resection.