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

J
Jersey33May 25, 2015

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?

Answers (4)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
Dr. Jeffrey Umansky, MD
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Dr. Jeffrey Umansky, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
4.9 | 81 Reviews
Answered on May 25, 2015
Answer
Dr. Steven Wallach, MD
Dr. Steven Wallach, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answered on May 26, 2015
Answer
Dr. Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS
Dr. Josef Hadeed, MD, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answered on May 25, 2015
Answer
Dr. Tom J. Pousti, MD
Dr. Tom J. Pousti, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answered on May 25, 2015
Answer

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Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS

It may take a few months for this area to healplease speak to your surgeon about ideas to keep it cleanBest of LuckDr Schwartz

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Scott C. Sattler, MD, FACS

In our experience, coverage depends on several factors - mostly dictated by your insurance company. We generally write a pre-authorization letter on behalf of patients that we believe are good candidates for the procedure. Candidacy, from the perspective of the insurance company, is usually...

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Scott C. Sattler, MD, FACS

OHP can be quite restrictive with coverage for procedures like breast reduction surgery. We typically write a pre-auth letter on behalf of patients that we feel are good candidates for breast reduction surgery and the insurance company gives a 'yes/no' answer. OHP has given us many 'no' answers.

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Miguel Delgado, MD

The most important factor is that you are in good health. Many patients your age and older have breast reduction surgery. As long as you get clearance from your doctor, you should do fine. Breast reduction surgery is one of the most patient pleasing procedures performed. Good luck!

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Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS

Thanks for the question.  First, you would benefit greatly from breast reduction, especially if you cannot get out of bed without there being severe pain.  You will, though, need parental consent since you are still a minor.  It is good that you have made your mother aware of your...

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Miguel Delgado, MD

Insurance can be very confusing! Different policies may have different requirements, your best bet is to find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon that you feel comfortable with and have your surgeon apply for you. If it is a covered procedure under your policy, you should qualify. If by chance...

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