Breast incision leaking smelly, yellowish fluid. Is it infected? (Photo)

Question

3 weeks postop BL with aug. I awoke this morning with a damp bra. Upon further investigation the vertical breast incision was opening and leaking a foul smelling (smell reminded me of smelly sebum), yellow fluid. I've been gently cleansing with Hibiclens at the end of my daily showers, use a freshly cleaned towel everytime, and allow the tape on incisions to dry completely. I thought I was being diligent with my routine to prevent an infection. Is this cause for concern? Thank you kindly.

Luis M. Rios Jr., MD · Answer

Thanks for the question and excellent photos.From the photos, it appears that part of the vertical incision has opened. Open incisions can have normal yellow drainage.I would encourage you to see your plastic surgeon soon, especially if you are having any signs of infection; fever, redness, tenderness and swelling.Ask your plastic surgeon for a wound culture. This is a painless Q-tip swab that can let you know if any bacteria are present and the correct antibiotic to use. Remember, not all antibiotics work on all infections or wounds. The results of the wound culture could take a few days to come in, so it is best to get to your plastic surgeon soon to begin the process.Good Luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Jjmbof4,this type of wound is not uncommon after breast lift. It is usually caused by poor blood flow. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon, follow your surgeon's instructions and keep your wound clean and covered. It can take few weeks or months for wound to fully heal. 
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Tim Sayed, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Please get in to be seen as soon as possible by your surgeon. Any amount of drainage when there are implants under the wound needs to be taken seriously. It may require antibiotics orally and topically, specialized wound dressings, and even a return to the operating room to wash out the space around the implants to protect them from infection. This issue has little to do with your routine, unless your activities put excess stress on the wound during early healing, and more to do with inherent risks of combining lifting with implants (two contrary operations commonly done by us plastic surgeons in one setting but with a lot of vectors of tension and other issues making healing more challenging). Blood supply and tension on the vertical limb can both play a role in allowing partial separation or delayed healing. Your surgeon needs to see your wound regularly and be proactive to make sure your implant is not threatened with infection.

Paul C. Zwiebel, MD (retired) · Answer

Drainage with odor may we’ll be a sign of infection. Get in to be seen by your surgeon as soon as possible.

Breast incision leaking smelly, yellowish fluid. Is it infected? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Drainage from incision needs immediate attention

Answer: Drainage from incision needs immediate attention

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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

Breast incision leaking smelly, yellowish fluid. Is it infected? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Drainage from incision needs immediate attention

Answer: Drainage from incision needs immediate attention

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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