Breast incision draining and tunneling, 3 weeks post op. (photo)

Question

I am 3 weeks post op. I have been experiencing sig. drainage from my R breast incision. I’m on 500mg Cipro BID. Drainage is mostly serous w/o odor. Ocassionally dark yellow. No redness or warmth to the breast. Slight erythema to peri-wound area. But the picture I took appears to show a tunnel and I can feel the air moving into what feels like a pocket of space when I change the dressing. I go back on Mon, but what are the possible next steps, and best/worst case scenarios. I’m scared.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Anne.  I am sorry you are having these problems, however it is best to stay close to your plastic surgeon and follow instructions carefully. At this time I do agree with the antibiotic therapy and careful wound care. Hopefully the drainage will decrease over time. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear anneundone,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. In case of exposed implant, it should be removed. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD

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

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

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs.  My advice is to follow the specific instructions given to you by your plastic surgeon.  Wound care and antibiotic therapy may be enough to correct this complication.  Best of luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Please be sure your surgeon sees you soon. If this becomes infected, or fails to heal quickly, the implant may have to be removed. Hopefully your wound will close quickly.

John J. Obi, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry and photo.  It appears you may have an infection in the pocket based on your description.  I would recommend that you contact your surgeon immediately and share this information with them and arrange to be seen emergently.Best wishes.

Jon Ver Halen, MD, FACS (license suspended) · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  Based on your photos, I understand your concern.  It is not possible to make an accurate diagnosis over the internet,  I suggest that you follow up directly with your surgeon.
Best,
  
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS
  
Harvard educated plastic surgeon
  
Texas “Top Doc”
  
RealSelf100
  
America’s Top Plastic Surgeons, Consumer’s Research Council

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Breast incision draining and tunneling, 3 weeks post op. (photo)

Answers (6)

BREAST AUGMENTATION PROVIDERS NEAR YOU