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What do I do about blood blister on 4 month old breast lift scar? (Photos)

I had a breast lift with 200 cc saline implants 4 months ago. Everything has been healing nicely, except I now have a blood blister that popped open to reveal a small hole on incision line. I was told by the Dr's nurse to wash with soap and water and not bandage it. I already had another spot open up and I followed the same procedure, but now I have an ugly scar there. What are some other possible ways to deal with it? I do not want it to open up further.

Doctor Answers 3

September 30th, 2016

Blood Blister on Left Scar

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Depending on your procedure, those with incisions around the nipples, there is the potential to affect your areolae during the healing process. Most commonly, we prefer the lollipop or donut lift because of the shape, small scars and easier healing. The nipple-areola complex is repositioned higher, the excess skin is removed, and the breast is reshaped in a pleasing contour and in a more normal position.

Over time, gravity will continue to have an effect and the breast skin will tend to stretch. The degree of #stretching and #sagging varies between women: generally, women with smaller breasts experience less recurring sagging. If sagging does occur, further excision of the skin on an outpatient basis can be used to correct the problem. Heavy and large breasts may lead to recurrent sagging and may require the removal of a small amount of breast tissue to achieve an optimal shape and size. One key to a satisfying result is realistic expectations.

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.

If you are worried that your incisions or scars are not healing well, then it is a good idea to visit your surgeon for an examination of the area to determine how well the healing process is going.

Learn more: http://www.horowitzmd.com/plastic-surgery-procedures-newport-beach/breast-lift/

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS
September 26th, 2016

Wound Healing Issues

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Great question and thank you for providing photos. From your photos it appears to be a spitting suture (suture coming through the skin). You should see your plastic surgeon for them to remove it and then follow their care instructions. If for some reason an area does not heal well you can have area(s) revised, if needed. 

Frederick G. Weniger, MD, FACS, MBA
September 21st, 2016

What do I do about blood blister on 4 month old breast lift scar?

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This problem arises due to the dissolving sutures in the incision line. Frequently, this is seen around 3 to 4 months after the surgery. The good news is that the area will heal and likely no additional treatment will be needed. It is best to follow up with your surgeon and get advice there.

Michael Hueneke, MD

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.