Soft spot on incision after breast lift. Will this heal OK without the wound opening up? (Photo)

Question

I am 6 weeks post op lift without implant. 2 weeks ago the last of the glue came off of my incisions and I noticed this spot on my vertical incision. It's like the incision split there under the skin but the overlaying skin never opened. It's a soft spot where the rest of the incision is firm. I showed my PS last visit and was told it looked like wound breakdown but since the skin is closed to keep an eye on it until my next visit in a few weeks. Will this heal OK without the wound opening up?

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

The area of concern is a common area to have healing issues.  It is usually referred to as the "triple" point.  It does appear that it has however healed.  The one advantage here is that you don't have an implant, so the concern is minimal.It is unlikely to open again once it has healed, however I would keep a close eye on it and follow your surgeons recommendations.Hope that helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Boobzbrain,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

Jonathan Saunders, MD · Answer

it is hard to predict the future.  for now nothing to do.  if there is some actual separation then I am sure local wound care will take care of it.  good luck

Bryan Armijo, MD · Answer

While it is impossible to say for sure, that area looks like it will continue healing well. There are no signs of infection evident from the photos. Even if a small wound does open up at that area, usually this can be treated with several weeks of local wound care. Continue to monitor this area and let your plastic surgeon know if it appears to be draining or if you develop redness at that area. Best of luck with your continued healing!

Neil T. Chen, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. As many other doctors have told you, this is a common finding. In most cases, this will heal with minimal scarring. Be sure to follow up with your surgeon in the meantime.

Alex Kim, MD · Answer

Under the vertical incision is your skin from lower part of the breast. Even if the wound separates, under the incision is the dermis. So, the wound will heal without problems. Sometimes it may leave a little wider scar, but the scar can be revised at a later date.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for this question and pictures. From the look of the pictures you seem to have a commonly seen breakdown or separation of tissue. However from the pictures the wound looks clean and no tissue is exposed. I think you will heal well. However continue to care for it as advised by your PS.On occasion a small scar revision is necessary but this is done several months after things have healed

Tarek V. Copty, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Boobzbrain, Continue to monitor the area as your plastic surgeon suggested  If you see any changes in the incision area, i.e opening, drainage, or redness contact your surgeon for an immediate follow up appointment.  Best regards, Tarek V. Copty, MD FACS

Soft spot on incision after breast lift. Will this heal OK without the wound opening up? (Photo)

Answers (8)