What is a breast abscess?

A breast abscess is a painful collection of pus that forms in the breast. Most abscesses develop just under the skin and are caused by a bacterial infection.  Small breast abscesses can be drained using a needle and syringe. If the abscess is large, a small incision may be needed required.

What can I expect during the procedure?

For both procedures, a local anesthetic will usually be given to numb the skin around the abscess so you don't feel any pain or discomfort.  A small abscess can be drained with a needle, sometimes using an ultrasound to guide the needle. This procedure can be done in your physicians’ office. A large abscess must be cut in order to let the pus drain. Usually a local anesthetic medicine is injected to numb the breast tissue first. After the infected area has been drained, it may be left open and packed with sterile gauze or closed with a small tube left in so the pus can drain out. This procedure may be done your physicians’ office.

What happens after the procedure?

You will be discharged to your home after you have completed the recovery period.