Are my T-junction issues healing okay at 17 days post-op? (Photos)

Question

Hi. I have asked my provider about this. However I would also like the views and experiences of other doctors re my incisions. It started with a scab and now at around 17 days after surgery there is separation and white tissue. I had a hematoma on left breast although it seems to be the right that has more of an issue at t junction. I have just started antibiotics and antibiotic cream. Are they healing ok? Will incision get worse before better

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have small open wounds after a breast lift just keep it clean and dry and covered with gauze and continue to follow up with your PS.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there and thanks for your question and photos! The T-incision is the hardest part to heal in a breast reduction due to three areas of tension on that point.  The wound usually heals nicely with bactroban and proper wound care so I recommend regular follow ups with your plastic surgeon to ensure adequate healing. Best of luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear 1972fran,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

Eric Wright, MD · Answer

HI,  thank you for providing photos.  This is one of the most common complications following a breast reduction with this incision pattern.  The area of the wound is where the most tension is located.  Based upon your photos, you are healing appropriately. It is always best to keep in close contact with your plastic surgeon during this process and follow the recommended wound care instructions.  This area typically heals well without any need for scar revision.  Good luck with your recovery.Dr. Wright

Ivor B. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions and your photos. You are still early in your recovery process and your breasts are still healing. You should continue to follow your surgeon's post operative instructions closely and maintain regular follow up appointments as well. Good Luck.

Jorge Jiménez Toribio, MD · Answer

Hi dear, thank you for your question.Based on the pictures it is just part of the recovery process and normal for the tissue to present many reactions as the healing process develops however It is hard to give you a proper assessment without first seeing you in person. I'd recommend consulting your PS to avoid any further complication.
Hope this helps!
Dr. Jiménez Toribio
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

Daniel Zeichner, MD · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
The operative procedure of mastopexy (breast lift) involves
separation of the skin and soft tissues of the breast from underlying breast
tissue. The skin and soft tissue is then advanced downward and the excess skin
and soft tissue is removed in an inverted "T" fashion.  
If there is impairment of the blood supply to the breast skin and
soft tissue, the segment of the flap the greatest distance from its blood
supply may not survive (at the junction of the inverted "T" flaps).
The cause of the blood supply impairment can range from effects
of smoking, diabetes mellitus, vascular disease, previous surgery in the
area (disrupting the normal blood supply), infection, or may totally
inapparent.  This is termed a healing delay.
Treatment consists of removal of the unhealthy tissue, followed by
intensive wound care. One looks for the development of granulation tissue, a
beefy red vascular tissue, to develop, after which time the wound will begin to
shrink. Most wounds of this size will seal over a span of 1-2 months.
However, a regimen of frequent wound care is required after unhealthy
tissue is removed. 
Your tissue loss is minimal. Continue wound care as per your surgeon's instructions. Most healing delays of this size will eventually result in a satisfactory scar. 
Best wishes...

Liana M. Lugo, MD · Answer

Hi! Thank you for your question and for your pictures. The incision has dehisced (separated). Dehiscence at inverted T-junction is not uncommon. Based on your pictures, this wound doesn't look infected. All you need to do is daily wound care and close follow up by your plastic surgeon.  I tell my patients to wash the wound twice per day with soap and water and to apply betadine and cover with gauze.  However your surgeon may have a different way of dealing with these wounds. You should follow your surgeon's recommendations.It will take several weeks to heal. Keep her or him informed of any changes. Go to all your follow ups and be patient. Good luck!

Are my T-junction issues healing okay at 17 days post-op? (Photos)

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