Purulent exudate from breast reduction wound-- infection? (Photo)

Thank you for your question.

Any open wound has bacteria in it and will produce drainage but may not be considered infected.  

The best way to evaluate for an infection is to have an exam or to discuss your concerns with your treating physician who has seen your wound recently and knows the prior management.

Worsening pain, spreading redness, swelling, fever, foul odor and purulent drainage can all be signs of infection and should be addressed promptly.

I hope this helps.

It sounds like you have good contact with your PS and this is the key. This will undoubtedly heal and silver dressings can help with granulation.

Hello and thank you for your question. Unfortunately, skin and nipple loss can be common after a reduction. It would be wise to continue your conservative wound care until the wound is starting to improve, and all of the necrotic tissue has been removed. Then I would recommend a surgical revision at the earliest possible opportunity.  Contacting your surgeon now is the best single action you can perform at this time. Good luck!
 

Best
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS