Armpit open wound after brachioplasty. Any suggestions? (photo)

Hi Marisuarez,Thank you for your questions and pictures from your recent arm lift, arm reduction, or barchioplasty.  Congratulations on having undergone an arm lift!Unfortunately, wound breakdown in the armpit is not uncommon. Fortunately, given the appropriate arm wound treatment, almost all these armpit wounds heal with conservative treatment. In my experience, that means these arm wounds do not need surgical debridement, skin grafting, or even scar revision. Your wound is open, but it does not look infected.  I would not use vasoline.  It is important to realize that every plastic surgeon has his or her own way of treating plastic surgery wounds.  I would suggest sticking with your plastic surgeon.  In this age of digital technology, I would email or text him or her these pictures. I believe these wounds can be handled over the phone. I would not involve your PCP. Involving another physician who does not specialize in wound care may complicate your wound healing and may in fact slow your wound healing. You must realize that plastic surgeons specialize in wound care, not PCPs.   I believe your plastic surgeon is more than qualified to handle your arm wounds.  In my practice, I would apply a cream called Santyl. Santyl is an enzymatic debriding agent. Santyl will remove the yellow tissue in the wound. Once the yellow tissue is gone, I stop the Santyl.  Then, I apply either Granulex spray or bacitracin ointment. These wounds may take 2 to 3 weeks to close. At this time, if all the other incisions are closed, I would encourage showering with soap and water. Showering will help to keep these wounds clean.  If you have any further questions regarding post operative care after an arm lift, arm reduction, or brachioplasty, please contact my offfice. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen.

This type of wound is very common after brachioplasty. In your photographs, some necrotic tissue is present. This should be cut away. The body has a wonderful capacity to heal wounds like this using a variety of treatments. I prefer having the patient wash the area with soapy water, rinse well, then place a dry dressing. Wounds like this often keep themselves somewhat moist. You should let your plastic surgeon know what's going on and follow their direction.

Good morning!Sorry to hear of your postoperative issues.  Poor wound healing is unfortunately relatively common after a brachioplasty- the suture line undergoes a lot of stress and strain throughout the day.  Your wound is pretty significant- but nothing that will not heal with local wound care and time.It is always best to follow your surgeons suggestions, but if you were my patient I would perform a local debridement of the necrotic tissue followed by thrice daily washings and coverage with a light layer of antibiotic ointment and a soft gauze pad. will take several weeks to fully close and you may need a small scar revision months afterward.I hope this helps

Thank you for your question and for sharing your photographs.  I am sorry to see your wound separation and would reach out to your surgeon to ensure appropriate wound care recommendations.  Though no infection is apparent you may require wet to dry dressing changes for debridement until nonadherent gauze and appropriate ointment coverage of the wound will complete healing.  Hope this helps.

Congratulations on your recent procedure. These incisions are fairly new and do take time to heal, I recommend you follow up with your surgeon and have him/her closely monitor the incision site.