Is it common to have a bleeding hole like scab area on the areola? Can it be an infection or a stitch?

Question

Hi I had a breast lift with augmentation 19 days ago. My PS is always removing the scabs, He says to avoid infections. When he removed the tape this area bled, a scab formed, and later he picked it and I felt that it wasn't ready. When it scabbed again I noticed it started bleeding,I went to his office yesterday he removed the scab again and said he needed to see what was inside, he suggested that I wash it with soap and apply Neosporin twice a day and put me back on antibiotics. Thanks!! B-

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

Sounds like you have a simple irritated suture or small suture abcess. Your surgeon is giving you ideal sounding care. Continue to follow their instructions and you should do great.  Good luck.

Gregory Baum, MD · Answer

Based on the time frame and your photo, it looks like you are trying to spit a stitch out. The suture knot may be very close to the skin causing irritation and breakdown of the overlying skin. Sometimes the knot needs to be trimmed down or the stitch removed to get the area to heal. Make sure you follow up with your PS to make sure this wound doesn't extend deeper and cause an implant infection. I think this is likely a superficial problem that will heal without issues. Best wishes.

Frederick K. Park, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It is not unusual to have some small areas of crusting and possibly small scabs on the incisions.Surgeons often look for deeper sutures which have become irritated and sometimes poked through the skin which can be associated with very limited infections right around the stitch. In these cases, often removing the stitch and cleansing the site will resolve the problem quickly. It sounds like your surgeon is watching you closely and the advice he gave is common to take care of small areas where healing is slow.Be sure to let him know if things look worse.I hope this helps.Good luck!

Is it common to have a bleeding hole like scab area on the areola? Can it be an infection or a stitch?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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

Is it common to have a bleeding hole like scab area on the areola? Can it be an infection or a stitch?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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