Why Aren't Open Wounds Re-stitched? (Breast Surgery)

Excellent question. There are a number of reasons why it is not ideal to close an open wound. It often depends on why the wound opened in the first place. Many times there is an infection present or chronic contamination with bacteria. If the wound is infected and inflamed and closed, the wound will likely open again and be worse. You are essentially trapping bacteria under the skin. Another common reason for an open wound is excess tension and trying to close this would certainly lead to a similar and often worseresult. The body repairs the open edges by creating scar tissue and unfortunately this is usually thick and may need to be revised later. I hope this has helped.

If you re-stitch open wounds, it may cause infection.  If a wound needs to be sewn, it has to be cut out under sterile conditions and re-sewn.  For superficial wounds, this is not done.  For deep wounds, sometimes this is the way to go.

Thank you for the question.

 Depending on the specific situation/wound,  closure of the wound may not be advisable because closure will likely not be successful ( For example within surrounding skin or tension in the area) and/or closure could potentially lead to an infectious complication ( formation of abscess).  An exception to this “rule” may be a wound that is unstable ( for example expanding and/or close to an underlying breast implant). 

 The vast majority of wounds that occur after breast lifting or reduction surgery go on to heal (by secondary intention) without long-term sequelae.

 Of course, your plastic surgeon will be able to provide you with answers more precise and relevant to your own situation.

 Hope this helps.