Open bleeding wounds breast lift/reduction? (photo)

Question

I had BR Surgery 21 days ago. After 10 days two open wounds near the T incition open. Left breast wound grew from a dime size to a quarter size. It still bleeds and won't heal. I'm using an antibiotic ointment, then a gauze that contains antibiotic directly in the wound to keep it moist and the sterilize gauze on top to protect the stitches and the wounds. My concern I don't see a scab building on it and keeps bleeding.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The area that is concerning for you has the highest tension and least amount of blood supply in a breast reduction closure. It is an areas that can break down causing a superficial wound. Please see your surgeon for his wound care recommendation.  Many times the wound will heal within 1-3 weeks

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

If you have been given that treatment plan of the ointment and gauze by your PS then keep following it.  The area of wound breakdown will heal from the bottom up over several weeks. 

	Dr. ES

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

This is a common area to have healing issues after a reduction. Have you visited your surgeon again to express your concerns and have this area looked at? It can take a few extra weeks to heal, and it does look like it has healthy tissue (and thus is bleeding), but you will probably wand to discuss this with your surgeon to make sure there is no infection. Make sure you're not wearing any bras or ACE wraps that are rubbing on this area as that can slow down the healing of the delicate new skin.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and picture.
	 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.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is fairly common to have some delayed healing at the "T" incision for some breast reduction patients.  Keep in close contact with your surgeon.

Open bleeding wounds breast lift/reduction? (photo)

Answers (8)