What is causing this hole on my incision line? (Photo)

Question

It started out small and has grown. I don't feel like it's infected and it doesn't hurt. It developed a week or so ago. My dr told me to put tape on it until he can see me and the black is just tape residue. Any ideas on what it is? My surgery was about 5 weeks ago. The first was taken a week before the second.

Joubin Gabbay, MD · Answer

Hi… this looks like a classic case of a spitting suture in the healing incision. This is the result of one of the absorbable sutures corroding up to the skin surface. It is entirely normal and you can expect no significant complications or problems. I certainly would see your plastic surgeon to confirm this, but more than likely, this will be taken care of with regular wound care using an antibiotic ointment. I wish you the best. Dr. Gabbay.

Richard H. Fryer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  This is something that you need to have looked at and addressed by your doctor, and it sounds like you already have an appointment set with them, so that's great!  Based on the photos it is most likely a spitting stitch, which is something that your doctor should be able to remove for you in the office and it opening will close.  This can be common, so nothing to be concerned about.If you would like more information regarding breast augmetation and the recovery process, you can download a free copy of my breast augmentation planner at ABetterBreast.com.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  It appears that are having some local wound healing issues.  The hole on your breast seems to have closed somewhat since it was first addressed a week prior.  Continue to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding post-op care to ensure proper healing and infection prevention moving forward.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  A common cause of a small wound along the incision at your stage of healing is a suture coming to the surface and extruding.  However, this would need be confirmed by an in-person assessment with your plastic surgeon.

Julio Clavijo-Alvarez, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

I am sorry that you are having concerns about your procedure
and thanks for sharing your question. I can appreciate your
concern.

The sutures used for closing the
incision are dissolvable. However, depending on the rate of absorption, they
can become foreign bodies that the body tries to get rid off. In some cases the
normal skin bacteria tries to colonize the material, generating an inflammatory
reaction. Once the little abscess is drained, a hole is created.

The important issue is that there is no
signs of diffuse infection affecting your breast or implant.

Finally, make sure that your doctor is
aware of your process. He should be able to guide you best in your care.

Wishing you the best in your journey

What is causing this hole on my incision line? (Photo)

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Answer: Hole along incision line

Answer: Hole along incision line

Answer: Suture spitting after breast augmentation… How serious it is?

Answer: Suture spitting after breast augmentation… How serious it is?

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What is causing this hole on my incision line? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Hole along incision line

Answer: Hole along incision line

Answer: Suture spitting after breast augmentation… How serious it is?

Answer: Suture spitting after breast augmentation… How serious it is?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

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