Do I have an infection and do I need to speed up the process before my 6 week appointment? (Photo)

Question

My surgeon did a tram flap reconstruction on me. My stitches were removed Thursday and my belly button isn’t looking that good anymore. The breast itself keeps getting blisters. My doctor has had me putting bacitracin and yellow petroleum type bandage on the breast to keep it moist and help it heal. Also my middle finger and index along with my thumb have been numb since surgery. Is this something I should be concerned with. I had lymph nodes removed. My arm has been swollen since waking up.

Michael Orseck, MD · Answer

The purplish part of the flap has compromised blood supply.  Typically, I take the patient back to the OR, cut the area out and close it.  Otherwise you will have an open wound that will take a long time to heal.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear tboss2293,this type of wound is not uncommon after breast lift. It is usually caused by poor blood flow. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon, follow your surgeon's instructions and keep your wound clean and covered. It can take few weeks or months for wound to fully heal. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thomas J. Lee, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is difficult to fully assess the quality and condition of the skin from pictures alone, but I would be concerned that some of the skin may have issues with the blood supply.  If you are ever concerned with a sudden change at your operative site, I recommend that you to give your surgeon a call so he can evaluate you in person.  I encourage my patients to call and make an appointment if there is ever a major concern about their bodies, since a face-to-face conversation and evaluation is, in my opinion, the best way of solving problems and alleviating concerns.

Do I have an infection and do I need to speed up the process before my 6 week appointment? (Photo)

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Do I have an infection and do I need to speed up the process before my 6 week appointment? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction

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