Smelly Yellow Discharge 4 Weeks Post-Breast Reduction

         This type of yellow
drainage is most likely secondary to fat necrosis or infection. When breast
reduction is performed it’s not unusual to have areas of fat necrosis. Fat
necrosis results from damage to the blood supply of small areas of breast
tissue. Over the course of time, this fat dissolves and turns into a yellow
oily fluid which can leak through the wound closure.

 

         Infection can also
cause similar drainage, but this is usually accomplished by other signs of
infection. These include redness, fevers and chills.

 

         Although, this is
probably consistent with fat necrosis, the foul smell does suggest the
possibility of infection. For this reason, your progress should be monitored
closely. 

Thank you for the question.

Superficial wound healing problems and/or discharge are not uncommon after breast reduction surgery. These usually go on to heal without further treatment and without detracting from the long-term surgical results.

I would suggest continued follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

Best wishes.

Yellow discharge may represent a number of potential source.  The most obvious is infection, especially when a foul smell is involved.  However, usually an infected region is surrounded bu redness and may or may not be accompanied by a fever.  Fat necrosis (devasularized fat) making it way out of an open wound is also possible.  This may also represent an early stitch abscess.  Your body sometimes reacts to foreign material in this manner.  It would be wise to keep in close contact with your plastic surgeon.  Express your concerns.  Post a pic for a more detailed evaluation.  I hope this helps