A breast abscess is a pocket of pus in breast tissue. It usually develops as a result of mastitis that was not treated or did not settle enough.
How is it recognised?
A painful, warm, hard lump in the breast, redness of the skin over it, fever and tiredness suggest an abscess. It is diagnosed by examination and ultrasound.
Treatment options
- Ultrasound-guided needle drainage: Often chosen for small and medium abscesses; repeated if needed.
- Drainage through a small cut: Used for large, deep abscesses or those that do not clear with a needle.
- Antibiotics: Given together with drainage.
During recovery
Warm compresses and painkillers help. Wound care and check-up times are given to you in writing. The decision about breastfeeding depends on the person and the location of the abscess.
Note: If an abscess keeps forming in the same area after drainage, another underlying cause is looked for; imaging or biopsy is done if needed.
Doç. Dr. Ebru Şen
General surgeon whose area of interest is breast surgery. Sees patients at Istinye University Medical Park Gaziosmanpaşa Hospital and Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital.
