How long will an open wound after breast reduction take to heal? (Photo)

Question

I had a breast reduction almost 6 weeks ago...at 2.5 weeks, I applied polysporin to the incision to help with it sticking to my gauze. It got infected and by the time I took the gauze off next, there was yellow pus, bad smell and quite red around it. The dr gave me antibiotics and instructed twice daily washing with antibacterial soap and gauze with small amount of saline on it. It's been draining since then, but i feel like it is taking forever to heal...is it normal to be taking this long?

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about your concerns. These types of superficial wound healing problems are not uncommonly seen after breast reduction surgery. The most important "step" for successful resolution, in my opinion, is close follow-up with your plastic surgeon. He/she will be able to recommend appropriate local wound care, treat any infection present, and/or remove any suture material that potentially will delay healing. Generally speaking, patients who experience these types of superficial separations go on to heal well, without long-term detraction from the end results. Occasionally, if the scar in  the involved area is wide, scar  revision surgery may be helpful. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with.

Jeffrey Umansky, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question and photo. Sorry to hear you are having a difficult time. Rest assured that your wound will heal with the guidance of your plastic surgeon. Minor Wound healing issues are very common with breast reductions. You may eventually need a scar revision, but for now just give it a few weeks to close. Good luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

This will take several weeks to heal with good local wound care. Be patient. They often go onto heal quite well.

Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not uncommon to see problems with wound healing after breast reduction surgery.  The length of time it takes a wound to heal depends on several factors, including the size and depth of the wound, the quality of the surrounding tissue, your age, medications you may be taking, and any other medical conditions you may have.  Your plastic surgeon can give you additional guidance.  Best wishes.

How long will an open wound after breast reduction take to heal? (Photo)

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Answer: How long will an open wound after breast reduction take to heal?

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How long will an open wound after breast reduction take to heal? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: How long will an open wound after breast reduction take to heal?

Answer: How long will an open wound after breast reduction take to heal?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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