One month post-op, my incision is getting bigger, is this a concern? (Photo)

Question

I had a breast reduction Nov. 21, was healing great until about two weeks ago when a small hole appeared my left breast. I called my surgeon the next day and they said everything I described as normal, just drainage, but it’s been two weeks now and the hole appears bigger! It’s draining yellow pus, no foul odor, and I’m not experiencing any sickness so I don’t think I have an infection, I’m just concerned with how it is healing. Should I schedule an appt?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear christinanicol1,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

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hello,You are having delayed healing at the t-section of the reduction incision. This is the most difficult area to heal. I suggest seeing your surgeon as he/she will likely want to clean this up and start wound care. All the best in your recovery,Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS · Answer

From the photo, it appears that you are experiencing dehiscence of your incision at the T-junction.  This is the area where a majority of the tension occurs and so is also the most common area for wound separation.  At this point, you really need to be followed by the Plastic Surgeon who actually performed your surgery.  There are a variety of ways to help this heal and I'm sure that he/she will help guide you.One thing that can definitely improve healing is to watch your nutrition in this early post-operative healing period.  We encourage our patients to use daily protein shakes to bolster their overall nutrition and I recommend that you do the same!I hope that helps and wish you the very best!Warmest regards,-Gregory A Buford MD FACSBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author

Ahmed Abd EL Gawad, MD, FEBOPRAS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Hi
Thank you for her sending your question and photos. I’m sorry to hear that you’re struggling with your scar. Them photos shows the evidence of small wound break down at the T-junction. This area is considered to be the weakest part of the scar in abreast reduction surgery. It should heal on its own within the coming few weeks however the quality of the scar in this area won’t be predictable.

Melih Erogul, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
The operative procedure of breast reduction involves
separation of the skin and soft tissues of the breast from underlying breast
tissue. Excess breast tissue is removed.  The skin and soft tissue are then advanced downward and the excess skin
and soft tissue is removed in an inverted "T" fashion.  
If there is impairment of the blood supply to the breast skin and
soft tissue, the segment of the flap the greatest distance from its blood
supply may not survive (at the junction of the inverted "T" flaps).
The cause of the blood supply impairment can range from effects
of smoking, diabetes mellitus, vascular disease, previous surgery in the
area (disrupting the normal blood supply), infection, or may totally
inapparent.  
Treatment consists of removal of the unhealthy tissue, followed by
intensive wound care. One looks for the development of granulation tissue, a
beefy red vascular tissue, to develop, after which time the wound will begin to
shrink. Most wounds of this size will seal over a span of 8-12 weeks.
However, a regimen of frequent wound care is required after unhealthy
tissue is removed. 
Undergo in-person evaluation by your plastic surgeon and follow instructions given. Scar revision can be considered at one year, but I am often surprised how well these wounds often heal on their own.
Best wishes...

One month post-op, my incision is getting bigger, is this a concern? (Photo)

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