Delayed hematoma associated with breast implants, whether for reconstructive or aesthetic purposes, is a rare entity. Most
reported cases have been intracapsular. Although several mechanisms for delayed hematoma have been proposed, its exact etiology
and mechanism of formation are not yet fully understood. The authors present a unique case of hematoma formation 5 years after
breast reconstruction with a textured anatomic cohesive gel breast implant. The patient experienced severe thrombocytopenia
secondary to chemotherapy, which most probably was the triggering etiologic factor. The hematoma was both intra- and extracapsular.
The authors speculate that the retrocapsular hematoma component was due to firm adhesion of the textured prosthetic membrane
to the posterior capsule and propose that for breast reconstruction with prosthetic implants in patients likely to receive
chemotherapy, a smooth implant might be better indicated.
Keywords Delayed capsular hematoma – Hematoma post-breast reconstruction – Late complications post breast reconstruction – Intracapsular hematoma