Is this necrosis, stitch abscess, or wound dehiscence? (photos)

Question

Does this look like necrosis, stitch abscess, or wound dehiscence? I am worried something is wrong. I am 4 weeks post op. At my 2 week checkup, PS said it was peeling from where the implant rubbed and to use antibiotic ointment 2x daily. I have done that but it looks like it is getting worse. I had HP smooth silicone, 425cc, unders.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

It appears that you are having some delayed wound healing issues.  Many things can contribute to it - reaction to the sutures, rubbing or irritation, smoking history, to tight a closure, etc.  I would recommend bacitracin or neosporin twice a day's end keep them clean with regular washing.  They usually heal on their own with proper wound care, but if you start to experience any drainage, call your surgeon at once.  I hope this helps.

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

It looks like you have a small rim of marginal necrosis of the skin. This area of skin will eventually slough off and heal in from the sides. In the meanwhile, be vigilant in the care of these incisions as instructed by your surgeon so you do not develop problems. It is critical to avoid any trauma to the area as it heals.

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thans for your question and photos.  From what I can see on your photos, you appear to have some slow healing along the incision.  It appears to be superficia, but without an in-person exam, it is difficult to say for sure.  Best to follow your surgeon's advice.  Good luck.

Kimberly Lu, MD · Answer

You have a small superficial looking wound along the incision line in these pictures (this does not substitute for an in person physical exam).  This does not look like a stitch abscess.  It could have been due to a small amount of marginal skin necrosis or superficial wound dehiscence.  This will likely heal on its own with wound care, you will need to listen carefully to and be followed closely by your plastic surgeon to ensure that there is not disruption of deeper layers.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Based on your photos you appear to have small areas of skin necrosis around the incision. Ask your plastic surgeon about wet to dry dressings to remove or debride the white tissue. Incisions heal best when open areas are pink to red. You should follow closely with your surgeon. Ointments may be macerating the tissue.

Is this necrosis, stitch abscess, or wound dehiscence? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Slow healing of wound after augmentation

Answer: Slow healing of wound after augmentation

Answer: Is this necrosis, stitch abscess, or wound dehiscence?

Answer: Is this necrosis, stitch abscess, or wound dehiscence?

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Is this necrosis, stitch abscess, or wound dehiscence? (photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Slow healing of wound after augmentation

Answer: Slow healing of wound after augmentation

Answer: Is this necrosis, stitch abscess, or wound dehiscence?

Answer: Is this necrosis, stitch abscess, or wound dehiscence?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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