Should my wound be wide open 2 weeks after surgery? Partial mastectomy ... I see the stitches (Photo)

Question

I have pics.... Please help me. This is the 3rd surgery on the same breast for three months... And from the looks of it look like I might have another one. First they said its just a bad abscess now it was a large cyst.... I already had two other surgery on my left breast for the same thing! That's 5 surgerys on my breast... And I'm tired

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

From the look of your pictures, this is certainly not a typical healing result at 2 weeks after surgery. It looks as though you have either a wound infection or skin necrosis. I would suggest that you get in contact with the breast surgeon that performed your surgery as soon as possible as this needs attention from qualified medical professionals.

Heather Richardson, MD, FACS · Answer

I'm so sorry you are struggling with this! Yes, I would work to clear out infected tissue and attempt to re-close the wound primarily as that will be the best way to achieve an even, normal looking breast and small scar. Did you have multiple surgeries to clear margins? Was there any attempt to remove fluid or infection with ultrasound guidance? I find that the most helpful and have had much success at preventing re-operation.

Carmen Kavali, MD · Answer

Your wound healing is not normal.  I hope that you've been back to see your plastic surgeon about it.  If you've had radiation to that breast, that may account for some of these troubles.  Or it could just be infection that caused it.  Either way, best to be evaluated by your surgeon quickly.

Khashayar Mohebali, MD, FACS · Answer

From your pictures it appears that you continue to have an open wound. Either from infection or loss of skin.  You should be evaluated by your surgeon for options of either surgical closure or letting heal from the inside.

Should my wound be wide open 2 weeks after surgery? Partial mastectomy ... I see the stitches (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Open breast wound

Answer: Open breast wound

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Everything you need to know about Mastectomy

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Should my wound be wide open 2 weeks after surgery? Partial mastectomy ... I see the stitches (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Open breast wound

Answer: Open breast wound

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mastectomy

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