Are my breast lift incision infected? (Photos)

Question

I am exactly 2 weeks post op today. Breast lift only, already had implants in last year. This is on my right side. My left seems to be healing a lot better. Is this normal? I am booked to see my surgeon in 2 days.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

The patient will go home in a bra or with only
light dressings over the incision lines. Sutures are dissolvable but an ending
knot, if present is removed within 1-2 weeks. Initial discomfort is easily
controlled with oral medication. Light activities may be started in 7-10 days. As the incisions should be healing and post-op follow-ups with the surgeon should be scheduled regularly it is best to take this question directly to your surgeon and have the area examined for proper healing.

All surgical procedures carry some degree of
risk Any breast operation can result in changes in sensation. This happens less
with lifts than reductions but is still possible Occasionally, minor
complications occur and do not affect the surgical outcome. Major complications
associated with this procedure are rare. The suitability of the breast lift
procedure and specific risks may be determined during your consultation.

#Hypertrophic or #keloid scars can be a
problem. The worst are usually under the breast with an #AnchorLift or inverted
“T”. These can be treated like all thickened scars with re-excision, laser,
kenalog/5-FU injections, creams, silicone strips and other methods to reduce
and improve healing.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.Looks like normal healing.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.  Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, it is not always abnormal to see localized ares of inflammation around incisions when they are healing but it is best to contact your surgeon regarding any change to the appearance of your incisions.  If there is significant drainage, swelling, tenderness, expanding redness or fever this could be signs of infection and you should seek medical attention.

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thakn you for your question and photo.  Congratulations on your surgery, but I am sorry you are having some problems.  From what I see on the photo, you do not appear to have an infection, but you do have slow healing where the incisions come together at the "T" junction.   This does happen from time to time and will generally resolve with local wound care.  Best to check with your surgeon for wound care instructions.  Good luck.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

This type of superficial wound healing problem you are experiencing can occur after breast lifting or breast reduction surgery.  I am glad that you are scheduled to see your plastic surgeon soon; in the meantime, I would suggest that you use a sterile non-stick dressing over the area (followed by a sterile pad).  Keep the area clean and protected. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be pleased with long-term.

Are my breast lift incision infected? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Slow healing at T junction

Answer: Slow healing at T junction

Answer: Are my breast lift incision infected?

Answer: Are my breast lift incision infected?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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Are my breast lift incision infected? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Slow healing at T junction

Answer: Slow healing at T junction

Answer: Are my breast lift incision infected?

Answer: Are my breast lift incision infected?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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