3 months post-op Breast Reduction, I have formed a fistula and having fat necrosis drainage. When will it stop???

Question

I had my breast reduction 7/26/16 and had some major problems with my left nipple and areola. I lost my nipple, and I have a rather deep fistula. I keep having this disgusting, smelly discharge from the fistula, and my surgeon thinks it is fat necrosis. I'm getting super discouraged because it won't heal. How long does something like this usually take to heal up? I've been packing it twice a day with strip gauze. Thanks in advance!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the complications you have experienced. How long it will take to heal will depend mainly on status/size of the unhealthy underlying tissue.  If the area of fat necrosis is small, it may take a few more weeks;  for larger areas, several months of drainage may be ensue.

The important part of this process is close follow-up with your plastic surgeon, who may able to help with judicious debridement debridement ( surgical removal of unhealthy tissue).  Whether or not surgical intervention is indicated is a clinical judgment that only he/she can make after physical examination and consideration of your progress/concerns.

Best wishes for an outcome that you will be pleased with long-term.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,I am so sorry to hear about your complications after breast reduction.  At this point it would be expeditious to return you to the OR for a definitive debridement.  This will remove any further necrotic tissue and allow you to heal. Once your wound is fully closed, you will need at least 6 months before considering reconstruction/revision. Best of luck!

John Renucci, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I am sorry to hear about your post-op complication.  Rest assured, complications do happen and will improved when managed well.  While both the surgeon and patient wish these wounds healed more quickly, its not uncommon for them to take a few months to resolve.  The key for progress to to have the devitalized tissue removed and the wound treated with appropriate dressings.  You will be surprised by how amazing the human body heals and how well the wounds can appear after resolution.  Healing takes time.  The key is making sure that you are seeing progress each week.  Keep in close contact with your plastic surgeon as he/she will want to make sure your wound continues to move in the right direction. good luck

3 months post-op Breast Reduction, I have formed a fistula and having fat necrosis drainage. When will it stop???

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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3 months post-op Breast Reduction, I have formed a fistula and having fat necrosis drainage. When will it stop???

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.