Is there anything else to aid in healing open wounds after a breast reduction? (Photos)

Question

I am 4 weeks post op. And I have several areas that are not healing and I am getting so discouraged. I change my dressings and have added vitamin c and zinc to my daily regimine and I am seeing my doctor once a week. I just feel it’s not getting any better and starting wonder if they will ever look normal again. My husband was opposed to the surgery so the complications have really put a strain on our marriage as well.

Aisha White, MD · Answer

Each surgeon has his or her own preferred wound care regimen following surgery.  It is best to contact your surgeons office to see what they recommend for your particular situation.  Even if you do not have an appointment scheduled for another week, they can often give you reccommendations over the phone based on either your description of the wound or they may ask you to email photos for further information.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

before they start to heal so ask your surgeon to aggressively remove all the necrotic tissue.  Do not let your wound dry out as you are just delaying the process.  Continue with TLC wound care and know that you will heal.  And let the shower water hit your wound to help keep them clean.   And when you do heal, then let your time before seeking revisions.  And I'm sorry your spouse was not behind you on this as a reduction, when done for the right reasons, has one of the highest satisfaction rates with plastic surgery procedures.  Also know that your surgeon should be very motivated to help you reach the best outcome possible as your results are a direct reflection of your surgeon's work.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the complication you have experienced; Although understandably distressing to patients, these types of open wounds tend to heal over the course of several weeks. Sometimes, the area may look worse before it looks better. Most often, even larger open wounds have healed by the time a patient reached the two months post op mark.
These wounds go on to heal through a process of contraction where the tissues heal from the sides towards the center of the wound. Close followup with your plastic surgeon, as you are doing, will be important; treatment regimens will vary from one practice to another.  Sometimes removal of a exposed suture and/or removal of any unhealthy tissue will expedite healing.  Also important to concentrate on a healthy diet, including good protein source. Avoid nicotine products.
It is not unusual for patients who are experiencing complications to benefit from additional time,  instructions and reassurance from their plastic surgeons.  Ask for clarification on instructions (which may vary from one practice to another).It is often surprising how well the body "remodels"; you may be pleasantly surprised when it comes to the final appearance of the areas involved. It is possible, depending on the final appearance of the scars and shape of the areola/breasts longer term, that revisionary breast surgery will be helpful.
 Best wishes.

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

Sorry for your problem and I would see your surgeon or other wound care expert in the area and get theses wounds appropriately managedDr Corbin

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