6 weeks post arm lift and there are small arm pit openings on/near incision. Now thick, yellow drainage. (Photos)

Question

Over the past couple weeks it's been pale pink fluid seeping from there, but now it's thick. When I lift my arm or press along the incision it makes slushy sounds. It's not red or hot and the drainage doesn't smell. no obvious signs of infection. I'm packing and covering a hole about 3 inches below my armpit that opened week ago. The openings in my arm pit are too small to pack. Is it normal to hear the gooey sounds in there through the openings? I have delayed healing in this entire arm.

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

It is common to have some separation of the incision after an arm lift due to the tightness of the skin.  Keep an eye out for obvious signs of infection and report them to your plastic surgeon.  It is best that you be examined by your plastic surgeon to see what his/her recommendations are as far as wound care.  Good luck!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns and photos. It seems you're encountering delayed wound healing after your brachioplasty. Here's a brief plan of action:
Use Betadine, Bacitracin, or Bactroban on the incision twice daily.
Keep the areas dry; avoid direct water exposure.
Do not press on the wound; allow fluids to drain naturally.
Please urgently consult with your plastic surgeon for a hands-on evaluation. Although such wounds often heal well, direct care from your surgeon is essential.
Thank you,
Dr. Katzen.

Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like after the arm lift there might be a collection of fluid inside the arm. You should visit your Doctor and try to remove this fluid that is trapped under your skin.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This is not uncommon to have a wound separation in this area, just keep it dry do  not apply any ointments and it will heal in time, continue to follow up with your PS.

Guy Cappuccino, MD · Answer

It is quite possible you have some fluid collection pockets under the skin following arm lift.  The body needs a way to let the fluid escape naturally, so those small holes are probably allowing the fluid to drain.  They may also be in areas of greater tension when you move your arms.  In time your body should naturally heal up.  If you do see signs of infection however, let your surgeon know right away.  Best regards.Dr. C

T. Randall Blanchard, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and your photos. It is not uncommon to have small areas of skin edge separation after an arm lift operation. The usual area that opens up is right in the axilla (arm pit). These areas always heal on their own with good wound care. I suggest going back to your surgeon for specific recommendations on how to care for these areas. Good luck.

Michael P. DePerro III, MD · Answer

This is a common place for wound complications after an arm lift.  It's the area of maximum tension on the wound.  Fortunately this normally heals in 1-2 weeks with local wound care.  You want to make sure your Plastic Surgeon is aware of your issue and that he/she sees you in the office.  The things to be on the look out for would be signs of infection: redness, warmth, fever, increased swelling, new tenderness, or foul smelling drainage.  Take care and thanks for the question!

6 weeks post arm lift and there are small arm pit openings on/near incision. Now thick, yellow drainage. (Photos)

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