This week, James E. Craigie, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question. Question:I had a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy and tram flap done at MD Anderson in 2004. I have had numerous problems since. Last week, I was in a car accident which I had severe bruising to my sternum and a bruise across my left breast caused by the seatbelt. I feel swollen and bruised in both breast and under my arms. Could I have problems with my breasts this long after the surgery? The pain I am having is much like how it felt after the surgery. Thank you in advance for any advice that you could give me. Answer: Sorry you had some problems, but glad to hear you survived the accident. Most likely your breasts will be fine. Once the body heals after the tram procedure the blood supply grows in to the new breast, and it should heal like any other part of the body. It is possible that the bruising could cause some fat necrosis. It will take some time for the bruising to resolve then you can have your doctor check your breasts for scaring.
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