Is This a Sign of Necrosis? (photo)

Question

I'm 4 months post breast lift and up until now everything was healing nicely. 3 days ago I thaught I had a scratch but it got bigger and it feels like there is a hole under the surface of the skin. Is this a sign of necrosis? How can I get it to heal?

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

This is not necrosis. The skin is still irritable from surgery. For these issues I typically recommend Aquaphor ointment and bandaging to prevent rubbing on the area. Soft bra also may be good idea. If this does not heal within a week or two, you should return to your plastic surgeon for assessment.

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

No this is not tissue necrosis.   It is most likely a dissolvable deep stitch, which has made its way to the surface.   It could also be due to friction/rubbing on a fresh scar.    I would recommend visit to your plastic surgeon to rule out a stitch problem.   Also, I would use a nonadherent dressing with bactroban over the opening.

	Dr. Gill

Lewis Ladocsi, MD, FACS · Answer

I am sorry you are having trouble.  The picture seems to show a suture which is either infected, or not dissolving for some other reason. It does not look like necrotic skin, or some other serious problem.  I suggest you return to your surgeon, who can diagnose and treat the problem.  Good luck!

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

This is not a sign of necrosis.  This is usually due to a suture knot infection.  Once the suture knot is removed your would will quickly heal.

Australia Fragoso-Baez, MD · Answer

Thanks for your photos and questions, it doesnt look like skin necrosis and with your clinical history it seems to be a problem with one of the stitches, please go to your plastic surgeon for a better care and follow up of this event, Good luck!

Is This a Sign of Necrosis? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Buried suture knot infection

Answer: Buried suture knot infection

Answer: Sign of Necrosis?

Answer: Sign of Necrosis?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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Is This a Sign of Necrosis? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Buried suture knot infection

Answer: Buried suture knot infection

Answer: Sign of Necrosis?

Answer: Sign of Necrosis?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift

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