Picture of open spot, is it healing? What does the yellow stuff on top look like: skin tissue, scab or slough tissue? (photo)

Question

Tomorrow I will go to the doctor also to check it out, but would be very happy for other opinions also. Thank you!

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

You appear to have had a small suture abscess (skin bacteria caught in dissolving sutures below the skin that finally were able to burrow to the surface, were then released, and are no longer causing a tiny collection of pus.) The yellow "stuff" is likely fibrin on the surface of whitish-colored dermis. Your surgeon will tell you his/her recommended treatment.In the meantime washing gently with soap and water and then applying a tiny dab of Bacitracin (NO, Triple antibiotic--Neosporin or Mycitracin--is NOT better because these triple antibiotic ointments have a higher likelihood for allergic response that causes redness and inflammation. Then the patient thinks (and sometimes the doctor, too) that this means infection is worsening so even more is gooped on the wound, further aggravating the allergic response) and a small dressing or BandAid.Do not use peroxide (once is fine for the first time one of these tiny pustules opens up), but I still like soap and water better, since peroxide kills germs, but also inhibits healing. This should heal without much further concern.Let me also hazard a guess. I'll bet your surgeon used Vicryl or Dexon braided dissolving sutures under the skin. If this is indeed true, you may want to read information contained in the web reference link you can click on below, especially if your surgeon tells you "This is a Vicryl 'reaction'." Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears that your nipple is viable and there is a small area that may be a stitch abscess or a small area of breakdown. It is best to follow-up with your plastic surgeon for an examination and recommendations on wound care. #PlasticSurgery #BreastReduction #WoundHealing #Woundcare

Picture of open spot, is it healing? What does the yellow stuff on top look like: skin tissue, scab or slough tissue? (photo)

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Picture of open spot, is it healing? What does the yellow stuff on top look like: skin tissue, scab or slough tissue? (photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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