Purple/blue liquid bubble on incision 4 months after surgery. Do I pop it and apply bacitracin or leave it alone? (Photo)

Question

I'm 19 years old and had breast reduction surgery back in November of 2014. I have minor issues with surfacing stiches that did not disolve (no bigger than a pinhole size). This time I have a large black and blue bubble on one of my incision, it is soft to the touch with no pain. Do I pop it and apply bacitracin or leave it alone? Please help!!

Ellen A. Janetzke, MD · Answer

It appears that you may have a suture or a deeper fluid collection trying to surface. I would definitely call your surgeon and make an appointment. It would be best to let he/she take care of it to prevent infection or further delayed healing.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

A collection of form material such as though suture can lead to a stitch abscess. This is a problem that should be shown to your surgeon. He may be able to intervene and shorten the healing process. Necessitating fat necrosis is a possibility as well.

Daniel M. Calloway, MD · Answer

Stitch abscesses often present as raised, irritated, "infected" areas of skin along an incision line.  These are always best addressed by your Plastic Surgeon, as they best know your anatomy and the suture types placed during your breast reduction surgery.I would avoid opening any wounds or attempting to retrieve "spitting" sutures as this could lead to a much bigger problem such as an infection of the breast or chest wall.  Your surgeon will be able to deliver the best care, such as obtaining cultures if indicated, prescribe medications such as antibiotics if indicated, instruct in proper wound care if indicated, etc. I always instruct my patients to call me first with any problems, and I am sure your surgeon would want the opportunity to help you through this issue.  Good luck!

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

From your photos it appears you have a fluid collection of some sort just under your skin. I would recommend that you not open it up on your own, as this may lead to an infection. Perhaps consider scheduling with your original plastic surgeon to see what he/she recommends. This may be a fluid collection from your surgery that is surfacing and looking for a place to drain.

Robert Savage, MD (retired) · Answer

You call your doctor and go see them for advice and appropriate treatment.I would suggest don't squeeze,pop or needle it yourself

Purple/blue liquid bubble on incision 4 months after surgery. Do I pop it and apply bacitracin or leave it alone? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Fluid collection

Answer: Fluid collection

Answer: Reduction dilemna

Answer: Reduction dilemna

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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

Purple/blue liquid bubble on incision 4 months after surgery. Do I pop it and apply bacitracin or leave it alone? (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Fluid collection

Answer: Fluid collection

Answer: Reduction dilemna

Answer: Reduction dilemna

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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