Is it normal to have swelling exactly 2 weeks post FTM top surgery (bilateral mastectomy)? (photos)

Question

I have swelling on the ends of my incisions. I don't know if it's just the stitches that have not dissolved yet or the start of "dog ears." I know that if it is an issue, my surgeon will fix it for free because it would be covered as part of the surgery but, I'm still worried. I just want everything to heal flat.

Anthony Deboni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. What you are seeing is very normal at this stage of healing. It is not uncommon to have swelling along the incision line. This is due to reaction to the suture as well as swelling from the surgery itself. I believe you will get an excellent r result. I tell my patients that it will take up to three – six months to see the final results. It takes this long for postoperative swelling and inflammation to resolve. Certainly discuss your concerns with your surgeon, but I believe that you have a very good early result and will be pleased with your outcome. Best regards.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Swelling a few weeks after your surgery is not unusual. In fact,  #swelling is normal and usually increases slightly after the removal of any tape or foam. The majority of the swelling will be gone within the first 3-4 weeks. However, it may take 6-9 weeks to disappear completely. A #compression garment, if prescribed by your surgeon, will help to reduce the swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly you will #heal. It can also assist in the retraction of the skin. If you have any concerns about #healing, its best to ask questions of your surgeon or their nursing staff.

Babak Dadvand, MD · Answer

Hi,Thanks for the post and photos. At 2 weeks it is normal to see incisions that are raised. They should flatten over the next 6 months. Final scar appearance takes at least a year.Sincerely,Dr. Dadvand

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

The lateral portion of the incisions can sometimes have some bunching from the often dissolvable sutures. This will likely flatten some over time, however if after 6-12 months they are not flat, you may have a "dog ear" deformity here and just have to undergo a minor revision, which is not uncommon with this surgery, as efforts are often made initially to keep the incisions shorter. Most revisions will end up making your incision a bit longer and more under the armpit, which is not aesthetically preferable to some patients. If the swelling seems to be more "waterbed" like, then you may have a small fluid collection, and may want to visit your surgeon to have this looked at.

Douglas M. Senderoff, MD, FACS · Answer

You are still very swollen.  This looks like normal healing but check with your surgeon to be sure. Be sure to visit a board certified plastic surgeon who specializes in top surgery.

Is it normal to have swelling exactly 2 weeks post FTM top surgery (bilateral mastectomy)? (photos)

Answers (5)