Breast reconstruction for infected breasts?

I have had breast infections due to Gamella bacteria first, then had a bilateral periductal fistula on both breast 3 times, then contracted HA MRSA. I underwent surgery for that. I still have infection but my breasts look terrible now. They are scarred from the many procedures, and the right nipple is actually at an angle now instead of horizontal.

I was wondering if there's any type of corrective surgery that would be helpful for my situation. We are still treating an infection, although unknown. The last culture was " normal skin flora". Thank you for your time.

5 answers to “Breast reconstruction for infected...”

A: Breast reconstruction with your own soft tissue

By Kevin Brenner, MD - Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon

Sometimes when breast tissue becomes severely scarred, the best option is to remove the extensively damaged tissue. This does not mean you will require removal of the entire breast, but possibly a portion of it. Replacement with your own tissue by means of a flap (using the Latissimus Dorsi or Rectus Abdominus... more

A: Get the infection cleared first.

By John P. Di Saia, MD - Orange County Plastic Surgeon

Hello, Before reconstruction you really want to get the infection issue cleared up as much as possible. If repeat infection is a high risk in the future you want to consider tissue-based as opposed to implant-based reconstructive options. Implants do not do well in the presence of infection.

A: Breast Infection: The treatment must be precisely planned and conserving

By Raffy Karamanoukian, MD - Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon

The breast, like many other parts of our body, are prone to infection. The ductal anatomy of the breast places it at risk for infection. The planning of surgery depends on several factors, the most important of which is to eradicate the infection altogether. Once the infection is cleared and time has... more

A: Autologous breast reconstruction

By Steven H. Williams, MD - Bay Area Plastic Surgeon

You have a complicated problem. The first issue should be can a partial mastectomy removing the scar tissue create a resonable breast mound or is it necessary to perform a larger resection. When dealing with breast reconstruction there is an important choice between using your own tissue (an autologous... more

A: A Rare Occurrence With No Easy Answer

By Athleo Louis Cambre, MD - Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon

I am sorry you have experienced so many problems with your breast surgery. As I am sure your surgeon has told you by now, there are no easy answers as to how to proceed; still, however, there is hope. In general, the first priority is to completely clear your infection. This means removal of the... more