What should I do about skin that turned black after breast lift? (Photos)

Question

Hi I'm concerned over an area under my right breast that turned black. Is it dead skin? Why did it happen? What could I do to prevent it? Is it something I should be worried about? I am 12 days post op since my breast lift with an anchor lift.

Jan Hochtritt, BSc, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for that question and the added pictures. It looks like the part of the skin that has turned dark is necrotic. This is the area that will get least the blood supply after surgery so it is a complication that we do see at times. Looking at the pattern of the necrotic skin in your case it looks like it is fairly easy to solve. However you need to go back to your plastic surgeon to let him arrange further treatment  the long-term result should not be compromised if your doctor deals with it. However it is a complication. These things can happen even without any one of the involved parties having made a mistake. I am sure that you have a postop consultation scheduled already. Otherwise do call today and allow your doctor to  plan further treatment with you.  Have a wonderful rest of the day and greetings from the beautiful island of Jamaica.

Reza Sadrian, MD · Answer

It looks like you are not getting adequate blood supply to the area that has turned black resulting in Necrosis of the tissue.
This area will likely need to be debrided and a wound care routine put into place.
You need to call your surgeon and schedule to see him/her to come up with a treatment plan. 
Best Wishes,
Dr. Sadrian

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Guess you will have open necrotic wound shortly. Guess you need to return to the clinic you used fr care. Good Luck. Or you can seek pre paid care from a private practice boarded PS...

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
Yes, there appears to be a loss of skin viability about the inverted "T" flaps of your breast lift incision. This is a common complication following the procedure as it is in an area of maximum "pull" (tension) and the tissue is at a distance from its blood supply. These wounds usually heal by secondary intention over 8-12 weeks with an intensive regimen of local wound care. Follow you surgeon's directions. The final scar is usually acceptable, but if not, revision can be contemplated after a period of one year.
Best wishes!

What should I do about skin that turned black after breast lift? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Wound healing delay after breast lift

Answer: Wound healing delay after breast lift

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What should I do about skin that turned black after breast lift? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Wound healing delay after breast lift

Answer: Wound healing delay after breast lift

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