I have an open wound post-op from my breast lift. My doc says let it be; reading stories here, it seems many other ladies are told the same thing. Why isn't stitching it closed done? It heals fine without it? It won't work so many days after the initial surgery? Of course I trust my doctor but I'm still curious.
October 5, 2023
Answer: Why aren't open wounds stitched?
One of the reasons that open wounds are allowed to heal from the inside out is that there was a reason why that wound opened. A wound may open because of an infection, fluid collection, or tension on the wound. If you try to close a wound under these circumstances, it will open again. Under these circumstances, the best options is to allow the wound to heal from the inside out. Once enough healing has occurred and the inflammatory process has calmed down, some wounds may be able to be closed secondarily. Definitely keep in touch with your plastic surgeon during this process! Good luck!
Helpful 4 people found this helpful
October 5, 2023
Answer: Why aren't open wounds stitched?
One of the reasons that open wounds are allowed to heal from the inside out is that there was a reason why that wound opened. A wound may open because of an infection, fluid collection, or tension on the wound. If you try to close a wound under these circumstances, it will open again. Under these circumstances, the best options is to allow the wound to heal from the inside out. Once enough healing has occurred and the inflammatory process has calmed down, some wounds may be able to be closed secondarily. Definitely keep in touch with your plastic surgeon during this process! Good luck!
Helpful 4 people found this helpful
July 26, 2017
Answer: Wound closure
The reason why your PS is likely recommending not to suture your wound is because the edges of the wound are likley inflammed. Placing sutures into inflammed tissues is really not a good idea. Think of it this way - the sutures will not hold well in tisuse that is inflammed. In addition, a suture closure could trap bacteria inside which could start an infection. Of course, not all wounds are the same. Some do benefit from a debridement (Clean up of the edges) and closure. I would defer to your PS as to the specific recommendations for your case. Hope this addresses your concerns.
Dr. Basu
Houston, TX
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
July 26, 2017
Answer: Wound closure
The reason why your PS is likely recommending not to suture your wound is because the edges of the wound are likley inflammed. Placing sutures into inflammed tissues is really not a good idea. Think of it this way - the sutures will not hold well in tisuse that is inflammed. In addition, a suture closure could trap bacteria inside which could start an infection. Of course, not all wounds are the same. Some do benefit from a debridement (Clean up of the edges) and closure. I would defer to your PS as to the specific recommendations for your case. Hope this addresses your concerns.
Dr. Basu
Houston, TX
Helpful 1 person found this helpful