Breast Reduction T-incision wound not healed after 6 weeks, is this normal? (Photos)

Question

Hello, I got a bilateral breast reduction 6 weeks ago and the T-incision is still not completely healed yet. Is this normal? There are no s/sx of infection. I put a sterile gauze on it daily and clean it with soap and water.

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  I am sorry to hear about your slow healing.  This unfortunately is not uncommon after breast reduction, particularly with larger reductions.  From what I can see on the photo, the wound is clean and healing well.  Best to follow your surgeon's advice and be patient.  This usually heals very well.  Good luck.

Eric Minns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The area you have a wound healing issue is at the T-junction.  This is the most common area to have an issue with wound healing.  I agree that nothing looks infected.  Unfortunately this has to heal by filling in from the edges.  This takes some time, but should heal well and the scar will fade over time.  You should be in contact with your surgeon and make sure healing continues to progress.  Hope this helps.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure.   These types of delayed healing problems are not uncommonly encountered, especially at the "T junctions" (related to blood supply and tension concerns). These wounds go on to heal through a process of contraction where the tissues heal from the sides towards the center of the wound; this process usually takes several weeks to occur, depending on the size of the wound. Occasionally, removal of unhealthy tissue (debridement) and/or removal of exposed sutures, may expedite the healing process.   
 
Best wishes;  despite the separation/wound it is most likely that you will be pleased with the longer-term outcome of the procedure.

Joseph Rucker, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

By far this is the most common problem that we see after Breast Reduction Surgery.  It has been so common that I have changed my post-operative instructions to avoid it.  The usual story goes like this: 1.Successful Breast Reduction Surgery. 2. 2-3 weeks after surgery there is scab formation and the development of an open area at the T junction.  3. If allowed to continue it will get larger.  In my opinion this is most often caused by a normal increase in the patients activity level causing the bra to rub against the T incision which leads to the problem.(this most commonly occurs on the hand dominant side).  My pro-active treatment is to have my patients wear a band-aide over the T incision site for at least 4 weeks after surgery. The problem has been greatly reduced in occurrence because of this approach. I hope this helps.

Breast Reduction T-incision wound not healed after 6 weeks, is this normal? (Photos)

Answers (4)

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