2 wks post op breast lift with prior implants and lipo of abdomen and flanks. Breast lift incision is opening. Is this typical?

Question

About 2 weeks post op my breast lift incision starting opening at the scar line. The opening continued to get bigger and basically was an open wound. PS did not seem too worried and gave me ointment and gauze to cover. Will this opening ruin my scar? Is this typical in a breast lift? With the lipo before my belly button was not protruding outward and not it is. It that common?

Robert J. Spies, MD · Answer

Thank you for adding photos with your questions.What has occurred to you does, unfortunately, happen on occasion after a breast lift with implants.  A breast lift creates tightness to the skin.  Adding a large implant creates even more tightness which can either pull incisions apart or cause the circulation to the skin to be diminished.  This could create a situation where the skin dies at the tightest areas which is exactly where you see it on your breasts.The best treatment now is to let it heal on its own through good wound care.  Any blackish looking tissue should be removed by your surgeon in the office.  It may take a while to heal but will.  Then, months later, a scar revision procedure could be done to improve the appearance.Dr Spies

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello Darlin,
Great question. Thank you for your pictures. Wound dehiscence is not uncommon. Follow your surgeon's post op instructions. Good luck with your recovery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Darlin0710,
this type of wound is not uncommon after breast lift. It is usually caused by poor blood flow and increased tension. 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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

No, the opening is not typical. You need to see you surgeon frequently to make sure you are healing well. You do need more than just an ointment and gauze. You do not want to expose the implants, or they will need to be removed. You have swelling in your abdomen from the liposuction. Once it goes away, your belly button should be normal.

Neil T. Chen, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I know it is upsetting to look at. However, the wound healing happens sometimes. Most of the time this type of wound heals spontaneously although it may take quite a few weeks. Definitely get close follow up with your surgeon.

2 wks post op breast lift with prior implants and lipo of abdomen and flanks. Breast lift incision is opening. Is this typical?

Answers (5)

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Wound healing problem after breast lift

Answer: Wound healing problem after breast lift

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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2 wks post op breast lift with prior implants and lipo of abdomen and flanks. Breast lift incision is opening. Is this typical?

Answers (5)

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Wound healing problem after breast lift

Answer: Wound healing problem after breast lift

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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