Is it normal for a incision on a Breast Lift scar revision to open up after only 5 days? Could it be infected? (photo)

Question

5 days ago I had the scar at the top of both nipples revised do to stitches spitting. Today I noticed puss spots under the steri strips. As I took the strips off I noticed several large holes with puss and blood on the right breast which has been sore since day one. Is this the fault of my surgeon or is it just the way my body is reacting? What is the best way to treat the openings? Thanks!

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

Is it normal for suture lines to break down? No. Does it happen occasionally, yes. The reason for incisional breakdown or dehiscence can either be infection, too much tension, excess swelling, or fluid collection under the skin. It appears that you have had a periareolar mastopexy. Surgeons often use a permanent suture as a "blocking stitch" to prevent widening of the areolae. If this suture becomes exposed, it can often result in indolent low grade infections that can affect the healing process. At this point, putting in additional sutures would not be advised. I would suggest treating this with antibiotics and possibly some small dressing changes. If it does not improve, you might need to have the blocking suture removed in order for things to heal. Your surgeon will know best what has been done during your previous surgeries and what the best course of action is now.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

This is a suture reaction. Where the same sutures used as in the primary operation? Best to start aggressive local wound care for healing. I might use PRP infusion therapy to speed healing process.

Mel T. Ortega, MD · Answer

Is very common for in this type of procedures for the incision to open up, is not yours or surgeons fault it actually happens in 80% of the patients. Follow up with your surgeon and do exactly as he/ she tells you to do, you would see how in couple of weeks you are going to be healing very well.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

and yours are open.  Continue with the wound care recommended by your surgeon and it should heal much better than you can imagine at this time.  What you have is not anticipated, yet it does happen frequently.  Keep your surgeon informed of your healing.

Peter Fisher, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi Mygirl. Sorry about your problem. This is a little early, but unfortunately is not an uncommon problem following breast surgery. They are stitch abscesses which will heal with the use of antibiotic ointment and a small dressing. It is not your ps fault and you should let him know what's going on.

Is it normal for a incision on a Breast Lift scar revision to open up after only 5 days? Could it be infected? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Open wounds rarely get infected

Answer: Open wounds rarely get infected

Answer: Breast infection

Answer: Breast infection

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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​Is it normal for a incision on a Breast Lift scar revision to open up after only 5 days? Could it be infected? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Open wounds rarely get infected

Answer: Open wounds rarely get infected

Answer: Breast infection

Answer: Breast infection

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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

Is it normal for a incision on a Breast Lift scar revision to open up after only 5 days? Could it be infected? (photo)