I had Brachioplasty about 6 weeks ago and now have abnormal appearing skin growth, should I be concerned? (Photos)

Question

I had Brachioplasy about 6 weeks ago. The left arm healed well, the right axilla had something to keep the site open during healing that fell out at about week 3 or 4 and left a hole. It is healing and the PS said it is ok. In the last 7 days the tissue has grown and is growing past the other skin in the axilla and looks like a little brain. Is there something I can or should do? Since it is still healing and hasn't scabbed yet I am not putting scar gel but I am using Abx ointment. Thanks, John

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for your question about managing an open wound six weeks after an arm lift surgery. It's a relief to hear that your wound does not appear to be infected and seems to be healing well. After examining the pictures of your armlift wound, it's interesting to note that you may be experiencing "overhealing," where the healing process is occurring too rapidly.
In such cases, most plastic surgeons would recommend discontinuing all current treatments, including any creams or ointments you might be using. This is to prevent further overstimulation of the healing process. If your wound continues to show signs of excessive healing, a common approach is the application of silver nitrate. This treatment is used to reduce the amount of red tissue, also known as granulation tissue, and can help balance the healing process.
I hope this provides a clear direction on managing the overgrowth of red tissue or granulation tissue in your open armlift wound. Wishing you a smooth and balanced recovery going forward.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS · Answer

This could be a splitting of the scar which can create granulation tissue. For this, your surgeon might decide to do a small local excision of the scar. I would advise following up with your surgeon to determine the best course of action.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,Wound dehiscence is common in the apex of the armpit after brachioplasty.  You appear to have a granuloma associated with the wound. Typically caused by a foreign body like a permanent stitch, the body's attempt to heal becomes overzealous, and this vascular mass can form. Go back to your surgeon for treatment and you'll be fine. Best of luck!

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

You look to have some over granulation of the wound. Can be related to stitches or simply the way the wound is healing. One can use silver nitrate either alone or in combination with a silver impregnated dressing at this time. Worth being seen by your PS for advice as always difficult to advise on line.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Thanks for posting your question and photographs.  It appears to be  granuloma which typically happens when an underlying stitch is irritated.  Return to your surgeon for an in person review and treatment.

I had Brachioplasty about 6 weeks ago and now have abnormal appearing skin growth, should I be concerned? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Over granulation

Answer: Over granulation

Answer: Arm lift recovery

Answer: Arm lift recovery

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Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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I had Brachioplasty about 6 weeks ago and now have abnormal appearing skin growth, should I be concerned? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Over granulation

Answer: Over granulation

Answer: Arm lift recovery

Answer: Arm lift recovery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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