Which specialist performs breast abscess drainage?

A breast abscess is a collection of infected fluid in breast tissue. A breast surgeon assesses the breast and may use ultrasound to locate the collection and guide a needle aspiration or a small opening for drainage. The clinician may send fluid for testing and decide whether antibiotics, repeat drainage or another procedure is needed.

Breast abscesses can occur during breastfeeding or at other times. The surgeon may coordinate with a radiologist, breast clinic team, lactation professional or infectious disease clinician depending on the examination and test findings. Drainage relieves the collection, but follow-up checks why it formed and whether it has returned.

Arrange prompt assessment for a painful, red or swollen breast, especially if you have fever or feel unwell. Tell the breast surgeon whether you are breastfeeding, recently gave birth, have had breast surgery, or take medicines that affect bleeding or immunity. Do not press, cut or attempt to drain the area yourself. Ask whether imaging is needed, how breastfeeding or expressing may continue, and how the wound should be covered.

Seek urgent medical help for rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, high fever, fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty or feeling suddenly very unwell. Contact the treating team if swelling, discharge, fever or pain returns after drainage. A breast lump has many possible causes, so persistent or changing breast tissue also needs clinical assessment rather than being assumed to be an abscess.

Ask: Is imaging needed before drainage? Will aspiration or an incision be used? Will fluid be tested? Do I need antibiotics? Can I continue breastfeeding or expressing? How will I know the abscess has cleared? When should persistent swelling be reviewed?