Wound opened on brachioplasty. Should I be worried? What should I do? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck and an arm lift 12 days ago. 2 nights ago i was changing my arm dressing and noticed that I had an opening in both arms in the armpit area. I asked my doctor he didn't seem too concerned just told me to keep it clean and to use these gauzes that he gave me. But rushed me off the phone. I'm not sure what to do. Should I go to the hospital and get it checked out?v

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

You're experiencing wound healing delays and open wounds. Often, after dressing changes the scar tissue that builds up is fragile and can be sheared off due to activity. You need to see your plastic surgeon for instructions on how to care for your wounds and better nutrition.  I suggest you see your PS or get a second opinion to get help on healing your wounds. Best wishes, Dr. Aldo.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about wound openings following a brachioplasty, arm lift, or arm reduction, and for providing your history and pictures. It's not uncommon to experience wound openings in the armpit area after such surgeries, due to the high concentration of sweat glands, hair follicles, and lymph nodes in that region, coupled with the constant movement of the area.
In addition, mechanical forces exerted by bandages and compression garments can sometimes cause the incision to open. For treatment, I recommend using a topical ointment such as Aquaphor, bacitracin, or a similar wound healing cream. Apply the cream to the wounds twice daily and cover them with a soft pad, securing the pad with an ace bandage. Avoid using tape directly on your skin, as it can cause blisters.
It's also crucial to ensure that any compression garments you're wearing do not rub against the open wounds. While antibiotics might not be necessary, you can continue to shower, allowing soap and water to gently cleanse the incision area.
Remember, it's important to have these wounds managed directly by your plastic surgeon. Reaching out on social platforms for medical advice is not a substitute for professional medical care. Please contact your plastic surgeon for personalized care and guidance.
I hope this advice helps you manage the wound openings after your arm lift. Wishing you a smooth and speedy recovery.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Charles W. Spenler, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your recent procedure! Unfortunately, it is common to have wound healing issues in that area post surgery because that is a high tension area. Based on your photos, the wound appears clean. If you notice any increase in redness, swelling, drainage, or fever, I would advise you to contact your physician again or go to the Emergency Room.

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

Unfortunately wound healing problems, especially near the armpit end of things, are relatively common after this procedure because this area is under more tension that the rest of the incision. From your photos, the open areas appear to be healthy without infection, so local wound care per your surgeon's instructions should help them heal up. If the scars heal wide or in a way you don't like you can consider scar revision down the line, but I would advise waiting at least a year to see where the scars settle out.

Adam Goodwin, MBBS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

this kind of wound dehiscence is common post this kind of surgery. As long as the wound isn't showing any signs of infection then dressings will allow the area to heal completely over the next1-3 weeksIt looks of course bad, but is nothing to worry about in my experience. Hope that helpsAdam Goodwin

Wound opened on brachioplasty. Should I be worried? What should I do? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Wound healing problems after brachioplasty

Answer: Wound healing problems after brachioplasty

Answer: Not a problem

Answer: Not a problem

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Wound opened on brachioplasty. Should I be worried? What should I do? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Wound healing problems after brachioplasty

Answer: Wound healing problems after brachioplasty

Answer: Not a problem

Answer: Not a problem

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Everything you need to know about Arm Lift

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