What is the term for this small hole on my scar? (Photos)

Question

Exactly one month after my breast augmentation I developed a small hole on the incision of my scar. It’s not bleeding but it is releasing a light brown liquid. On the inside of the hole I can see it is a pinkish white color. I don’t have any idea why it is there or how it developed. What concerns me the most is that it’s not bleeding. I figured if it were bleeding it would heal up on it’s own. Does anyone know what it could be or have any information on how to heal from this?

Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS · Answer

This is delayed healing to your scar with granulation tissue in the wound. This can be treated with local care.

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

It appears that you have some retained sutures.   I recommend an in-office examination as well as a detailed discussion with a surgeon who you are comfortable with.   Finally, make sure your surgeon is a Double-Board Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), a member of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS).Best,Dr. DesaiBeverly Hills Institute for Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills & Miami Beach TrainedDouble Board-Certified Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

It is possibly a "retained stitch" which is where one of the dissolving stitches is taking too long and irritating the tissues like a pimple.  Get examined to know for sure.Best of luck!
Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Ram Kalus, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears that you had an augmentation mastopexy (combined with a breast lift), and you have some delayed healing. This can potentially become a more serious problem. I suggest a follow up with your surgeon. If you remain concerned and feel that your concerns have not been properly addressed, I suggest a second opinion with an experienced board eligible or bard certified plastic surgeon. A wound that is slow in healing in the setting of underlying breast implants can be a potential source of infection which can result in more serious complications. Best of luck to you.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  Based on
your photographs, there does not appear to be an infection. I recommend
that you maintain close follow-up with your surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Amir Nasir, MD · Answer

From the pictures it looks like some retained (or unabsorbed) sutures. Your plastic surgeon can usually remove them in the office and start wound care to help the tissues heal. You should see your plastic surgeon sooner rather than later to get this addressed.I hope this helps!

Arthur Shektman, MD · Answer

It looks like you may have some fat necrosis, which not uncommon.   You should see your plastic surgeon as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis as well as wound treatment.

Reza Sadrian, MD · Answer

You may have had some necrosis in that area, but I would recommend that you see your plastic surgeon as soon as possible for proper wound care.Best Wishes,Dr. Sadrian

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your photo's and question.  It looks like you have fat necrosis which is fairly normal after reductions or lifts.  They will close up on their own , just keep a dressing over it to protect your clothing.

John W. Menard, MD · Answer

.  It appears that you have developed an ulceration in your breast augmentation scar.  It appears to be superficial but this can only be determined by your surgeon after evaluation.  This may be related to overlying trauma from your bra or slow healing by the involved tissue.  I would recommended that you  see your surgeon for evaluation and treatment recommendations.  Good luck

What is the term for this small hole on my scar? (Photos)

Answers (12)

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