2 weeks post. Puss after breast lift. Is this normal? Should I see a doctor, dermatologist or local plastic surgeon? (photo)

Hello and thank you for posting photos along with your question. It is unfortunate that you are having this issue after your surgery in Mexico! It must be a little worrisome when you cant just go see your doctor right away when you have issues after surgery. This is one of the BIG downsides to medical tourism that we try and try to explain to patients....Its about proper follow up care. Unfortunately it is going to be pretty difficult to have another plastic surgeon take over care of a plastic surgeon from another country. Contact your plastic surgeon and see if they have someone they know that will help where you live. You can definitely call around and explain your situation to see if anyone will see you. Last option is to go to the ER and be seen there. If you have an infection you need to be seen RIGHT AWAY and at this point going straight to the ER is probably best. Please spread the word about your experience of medical tourism and the downsides that can come with it...sometimes trying to save a little money can end up costing you MORE money. I wish you the best in your recovery and healing and hope you are able to get this issue resolved.

I am sorry you are having complications post breast lift done in Mexico. You need to be evaluated as soon as possible to determine if indeed drainage is pus or simply fat necrosis (which is common). If it is pus, antibiotics and possible wound drainage will be necessary. It may be difficult to find a plastic surgeon that is willing to see you, but the attempt must be made. If you can't find one, please present to a local ER to be evaluated. I hope this helps.Best wishes and kind regards, 

Dear hiddenmommy,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for second opinion. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

for recommendations as antibiotics can be called in if needed.  It is not abnormal to have some scant drainage but if its a lot, that is more serious and you can most easily get help by going to the ER.

Hi HPus is the sign of an infection  and is not good.  You need to be evaluated immediately because as the infection continues, it continues to damage/destroy breast tissue.  It has the potential to be life threatening.The problem with medical tourism (e.g., going to Mexico for your surgery) is that you have no idea what was done to you, and you have no recourse.  Worse, you have no follow up care and you will be hard pressed to find a surgeon who will be willing to step in to manage someone else's complication (not an enjoyable situation to be sure- for anyone, to say the least).My urgent advice to you is to forget about the dermatologist, you need a plastic surgeon, board certified!  Call tomorrow and get in tomorrow.  If you cannot find someone by say noon, go to your local hospital who has a plastic surgeon on call.I have treated patients like you who have gotten surgery in Mexico, Costa Rica, and South American Countries, so your experience is not unique.  Act quickly.All the best.sek

Its best you follow up with the operating surgeon.  He or she knows best what was done.  If its urgent, see a local specialist

Hi -
You would best be served by seeing your plastic surgeon.  Having your surgery done in your local area is always advisable for this exact reason.  Taking time out of daily life to have to go back and visit with your operating surgeon is hard to manage but is always the best idea if you can.  I would call their clinic and see what you can work out.
All the best - Dr. Bekanich