How long will it take to heal? (photo)

Question

It’s been 1 month since I had my breast lift and augmentation surgery with a surgical mesh. 2 days after my surgery I developed a blister and was told to remove the tapes and apply vaseline. once I removed the tapes the blister opened and I believe removed skin and stitches. I was told to apply Telfa with Neosporin and wash it 2 a time which I do but it doesn’t seem to be getting better. Now it seems like I have a huge whole where the incision was. My Ps says he wants to clean it up and  re stitch it and in the mean time put silver sulfadiazine on it. It doesn’t hurt but I have an achy feeling I’m not sure if it’s the wound or the mesh. But worst case he would have to redo the entire surgery on my left breast. Can someone just tell me if it’s getting better or worse. I am so worried.

John Paul Tutela, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for reaching out. It appears that you do have a very large wound at the base of your breast. You’re right to worry that the mesh  may be exposed and that may also eventually expose your implant. Stay in close contact with your surgeon and follow their instructions. You will likely need it more than one surgery to get through this.I hope this helps :-)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear mo736,
this type of wound is not uncommon after breast lift. 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

Steven Sigalove, MD FACS · Answer

Based on your photos you have exposure of the underlying mesh and the implant is seen just behind the mesh. This is a situation which requires immediate intervention in order to salvage your surgery. You are at a high risk for infection as your mesh and implant are in comminucation with the external world and the surface of the implant can be exposed to bacteria. Please see your plastic surgeon immediately. Good luck.

Donald S. Mowlds, MD · Answer

Following a breast lift with augmentation, the “T’” portion of the incision is the most common area to undergo breakdown and develop a wound. Often, these resolve with ointment, dressing changes and close observation. Once healed, a revision of the scars can be discussed. I usually wait a couple of months before revising scars on the breast in order to allow the surrounding skin to stretch, increasing the safety of any revisionary procedures. Patience is the key to ultimately achieving a great result. It is difficult to tell from the picture if there is exposure of the mesh or implant. If this is the case, in my opinion, it may be better to intervene earlier to avoid more serious complications. Since I am not able to fully examine your wound, I would suggest close follow-up with your plastic surgeon with the understanding that complete resolution may take time and require more surgery. I hope this was useful!

DSM

DSM

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Dear Mo,You have a significant open wound of the breast.  If the mesh is exposed, it is an entirely different issue (much larger).  I cannot comment on the exposure as the photos was not clear enough to see and a physical exam is the only way to tell.  Stay in touch with your Plastic Surgeon regarding wound care.  You will most likely need either a debridement soon with +- closure and/or revision surgery later. Best of luck with your healing.Dr T

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It is important that you see your surgeon.  You could develop an infection, which could cause you to need your implants removed.  Follow all his instructions.

How long will it take to heal? (photo)

Answers (6)

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