Is the pain and odor in my armpit post breast reduction a gland infection?

Question

After my breast reduction my right armpit was extremely painful. Two weeks post op and the pain is a little tender. Now I have extremely bad odor. Initially it was worse from the right armpit and now both smell very strong. I shower daily and as soon as I get out the smell returns. I was washing them with antibacterial soap, but that dried them out and they have been peeling. I stopped using antibacterial soap and moisturize with coconut oil. I don't use a deodorant to avoid harmful ingredients.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Surgery near the axilla can trigger a reaction by the skin that creates some unpleasant odor. Nevertheless this is something that should be brought to the attention of your own surgeon.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

You should have this examined by your plastic surgeon.  It is possible that this is not related to your breast reduction but a condition called hidradenitis.  This is an infection of the scent glands of the hair bearing area under your arm.

Is the pain and odor in my armpit post breast reduction a gland infection?

Answers (2)