4 weeks post breast lift w/implants: my incision is not healing, what do I do? (Photos)

It is not uncommon to see a breast lift wound open up a bit at the point where the vertical incision meets the horizontal incision. It is usually because of too much tension on the skin flaps and not enough blood flow to the edges of the flaps. As you mentioned it is more common in smokers and diabetics. Usually these wounds are fairly superficial and heal uneventfully over several weeks with conservative wound care. It is hard to know for sure but from your photo it appears your wound is deeper and I’m concerned your implant may be exposed. A photo will never substitute for an actual examination so I suggest you see your surgeon as soon as possible as an exposed implant is a serious issue. Best of luck to you!Thomas Taylor, MD, FACS

Dear gaily1,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
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

This photo is a bit concerning to me. The open area in the photo is the most common location for delayed healing as it represents the point of maximal tension on the closure of the lift. If you have large implants, this area may be under greater tension. The breakdown of skin itself is not the concern, as the skin can often re-heal in time with good wound care, as others have stated. The concern is that you have an implant under there and if the implant has become exposed by the wound, you may need reoperation to try to salvage the implant, or it may require removal. There is a risk of implant infection in any breast augmentation; if the wound opens up and exposes the implant to the outside world -- even if you don't directly see the implant in the base of the wound -- that may result in bacterial colonization. You need to see your surgeon again immediately to have the wound reassessed.

Thanks so much for reaching out and sharing photos. First, I am sorry you are dealing with this issue, I would definitely be sure to keep in close contact with your surgeon, weekly in person follow ups so they can monitor your incision closely. Follow their instructions and be sure to see them on a regular basis. Best of luck. Dr. Kachenmeister

The dark thing in the middle of the open wound might be your implant. If that is the case, and if it is exposed to the world, it will need to be removed. Please see your surgeon immdeiately.