Could my breast be infected after breast reduction? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I am 11 days post op from breast reduction and since the 4th or 5th day it has been oozing yellow puss it doesn’t have a smell but I am still really worried that it’s infected my surgeon said it will be fine but I would just like a second opinion as I am very nervous about getting an infected

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Separation at the inverted T zone in breast reduction is a very common occurrence.  The good news here is that even a separation of 1 to 1.5 cm will likely heal and contract very well to produce a nice thin scar.  If there is a great deal of wound separation, this may still heal well, but a revision may be needed in the future.    Antibiotics are not needed unless there are signs of infection.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Eric Wright, MD · Answer

This area can have delayed wound healing.  An infection involves more than oozing. I would follow up closely with your Plastic Surgeon as they would know of other concerning symptoms to monitor.  Follow the wound care instructions and I anticipate you will heal without any further issues.Good luck with your ongoing recovery.Dr. Eric Wright

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear saoirseK,
this type of wound is not uncommon after breast reduction. 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

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Your surgeon is in the best position to answer this question. You have had an anchor pattern reduction and the “T” junction is angry which is very common with this technique. Infection is often associated with discharge, redness and fever although its not always the case. Its not uncommon to experience some wound breakdown or discharge from this area after surgery. Follow your surgeons post operative guidelines carefully and let them know about any changes

Anne Taylor, MD · Answer

Hi- you can relax- the T- zone is the tightest for the skin and often has a small amount of what we call delayed healing-- it will probably need a little more time than the rest, but will be fine. You should follow the wound care advice from your plastic surgeon-- she knows your anatomy and situation the best.Breast Wishes

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for writing,I would ask, have you contacted your plastic surgeon, as I believe he / she would want to know about this so they can help you? The area your concerned about is called the “T”, where everything comes together. Separation here happens periodically and it typically isn’t infected. Washing and soft dressing with ointment usually take care of it. That being said, the person to make this decision is your operating Plastic Surgeon, you’ll do well. Good luck Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS
Certified: American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetics Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Member:RealSelf Hall of Fame

Could my breast be infected after breast reduction? (Photo)

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