Is this breast cellulitis? (Photo)

Question

I had a dissolving stitch that spit out entirely that left me with an open wound/hole. I developed redness around my areola along with a raised bump on my incision site away from the open wound. I also developed an abscess on my nipple. I was given Cipro (14 days) and Cephalexin (7 days) to take. Is it breast cellulitis? What is causing the raised bump on the incision site. Please note that the bump is NOT where the open wound is.

Matthew J. Nykiel, MD · Answer

Hello and Great Question.  I appreciate the time you are spending researching this procedure.  My name is Dr. Matthew J. Nykiel.  I am a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, a Fellowship Trained Cosmetic Surgeon, and a Cosmetic Breast Augmentation Specialist.
It appears as though you may have another spitting suture - which is common.  Please contact your surgeon for further treatment/examination.  
I hope that helps!  Best of Luck!
Matthew J. Nykiel, MD
#CoreAesthetic
Breast Augmentation Specialist
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,This is not cellulitis, but instead a local infection around the sutures. They need to be managed by your surgeon. Although you chose a circumareolar mastopexy, presumably because of minimal scaring, you were not a candidate for it. Your nipple-areolar complex is still low, due to the original short distance between nipple and inframammary fold. Further, you will see that your scars won't be minimal after this heals. Go visit a few ABPS certified/ASAPS member surgeons who specialize in revision breast surgery. Best of luck.

Jeffrey D. Wagner, MD · Answer

Based upon your pictures, I don't think this represents true infection or cellulitis.  Spitting sutures are sometimes seen after incisions in thin, stretched tissue in this area and usually heal with conservative wound cares.  I recommend you maintain close followup with your surgeon.

Mehdi K. Mazaheri, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. Spitting sutures are common and can lead to small wounds. It does not look like you have breast cellulitis. Without examining you I can’t comment on the bump. Please have close follow up with your surgeon. Good luckDrMaz

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Dear Holly.I’m sorry about your spitting sutures. Infection is a risk of surgery like many other complications. I suggest you discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon right away and get the appropriate diagnosis and treatments.Good luck. Dr. Aldo

Himansu Shah, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photos. It is difficult to answer your question without examining you. It is best to be examined by your board certified plastic surgeon and follow their advice. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear hollygolightly29I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Susan Buenaventura, MD, FACS · Answer

The foto does look consistent with infection/abscess in the suture line of the areola.  This can be from skin bacteria, from dissolvable sutures, or from a microscopic sweat gland that got in under the skin.  See you surgeon for an in person exam.  These issues are common after major breast surgery and it may require some wound care or drainage in office.  If you are smoking, stop!  Best wishes

Frederic H. Corbin, MD (license restricted) · Answer

Sorry for your problem and you may be developing another stitch abcess along the suture line.  So see your surgeon or other wound care expert in the areaDr Corbin

Christine Sullivan, MD (retired) · Answer

It is important to contact your board certified plastic surgeon with any and all concerns following your breast surgery.  best wishes!

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Is this breast cellulitis? (Photo)

Answers (10)

BREAST AUGMENTATION PROVIDERS NEAR YOU