Is It Normal For Wounds To Still Be Leaking 6 Weeks Post Op? (photo)

We occasionally see patients who have prolonged serous
drainage from their wounds following breast reduction surgery. In the vast majority of patients this problem
resolves spontaneously. When this
situation arises it’s important to perform frequent dressing changes and
monitor for the development of infection. It’s also important to continue the use of compressive support garments.In
some cases prolonged drainage may indicate the presence of a seroma. For this reason it may be appropriate to
obtain an ultrasound and CT studies to confirm this diagnosis. The vast majority of patients who have seromas
after six weeks require CT guided drain placement. Failure to provide adequate drainage can
result in secondary complications such as wound breakdown and infection.For
this reason, it’s important to consult your plastic surgeon. This surgeon should be able to formulate a
treatment plan that addresses your drainage.

Wounds at the junction of the incision for this type of breast reduction can occur.  Good wound care will with time heal these wounds.  Make sure you have close follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Dr. ES

Thank you for the question and picture.

The superficial separation and associated drainage is not uncommon after breast reduction surgery.  If it does occur it tends to occur  at the junction of the vertical and horizontal incision lines. These areas generally go on to heal without sequelae. I would suggest you continue to follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

Congratulations on having undergone the procedure; it is one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.