???'s about a hematoma

Hi...
Last wk, I noticed that a section of my incision looked a little red & puffy and it was tender to each side of that spot. I called Dr's office and the nurse told me it sounded like a Hematoma-fluid collecting at that spot. Was told to use a heating pad on it, and watch for discharge. No discharge or seeping has appeared.

Can anyone tell me about any experiances w/Hematoma? It is still sore & tender at that spot and doesent look any better. I don't know anything about hematoma's--how they start or heal or anything. My 4wk post-op is Wed., so the Dr. will see it then...just wondered if I could get any advanced info beforehand: and should I be worried at this point w/no improvement?

Thank you so much.

Hi cazcan,

I have a small lump under one of my incisions. At my 2 wk post-op appt. my Dr. said it was probably a hematoma. My understanding is that it is an area where blood collected, and then the body sort of seals it in. Mine is tender, but not red. My Dr. said to keep and eye on it and call if it got hot or red (possible signs of infection). She said that with time the body will absorb the fluid. Heat helps to bring circulation to the area, so I've been putting hot water bottles on my tummy whenever I'm resting, including on the hematoma.

I guess if I were you I'd rather be safe, and call again tomorrow to get advice. If you're like me, you hate to be a pest with questions, but why worry until Wednesday! This seems really reasonable since you haven't seen improvement.

Sending best wishes!

Hi Lonicera!
Thank you so much for the reply. I think I will call the doc tomarrow...your right about me feeling like a pest by calling!
But this thing really has me a bit worried...
Thank you again for your words!!

I just wanted to say good luck and I pray it is nothing serious!!!!