Breast Health

Post-Surgery Care for Abscess Removal

An abscess is a pus-filled (a fluid containing dead tissues and bacteria) lump that forms due to the immune system’s response to fight a bacterial infection. In the case of a breast abscess, there is a painful build-up of pus in the breasts. Breast abscesses can be drained and removed through minimally-invasive surgery.

What Are the Causes & Symptoms of Breast Abscess?

If left untreated, Mastitis (or Mastitis from blocked ducts) can progress and a collection of pus (abscess) can develop in your breast, which would require surgical drainage of abscess to treat the condition.

Some of the common symptoms of a breast abscess include:

• Pain
• Nipple discharge
• Redness
• Pus-filled lumps that form under the skin of the breast
• Swelling
• Warmth around the affected area

How Is Breast Abscess Diagnosed?

To diagnose a breast abscess, your breast specialist may conduct a physical examination to detect any symptoms, such as unusual swelling or the presence of lumps.

An ultrasound may also be performed for a detailed inspection of your breasts to determine signs of infection or inflammation. If an abscess is present, samples of the fluid inside the lump may be extracted (fine-needle aspiration) for further testing.

How Is Breast Abscess Treated?

Treatment for breast abscesses typically involves surgical drainage of the pus from the lump.

You will first be administered with a local anaesthetic before your surgeon makes a small incision on the lump to physically drain the abscess. Alternatively, they may extract the fluid using a needle with Ultrasound guidance (Ultrasound guided aspiration of abscess).

Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent future infections as well as over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen to relieve pain and inflammation.

Anyone who suspects that they have breast abscess or who has had symptoms of mastitis for more than 24 hours should seek treatment with a breast specialist early for diagnosis and treatment.