'Slough' forming after mastopexy. Have I caused this? What is the treatment? How long will it take to heal?

Question

I have had a right breast reduction & bilateral mastopexy. My nurse has said I have an area of 'slough'. been told to use betadine 2x daily & use sanitary pads on area to keep it dry. I noticed that 2 other areas are appearing. 2 on the left breast - one on the areola edge & 1 towards the bottom of the scar & one on the right breast toward the bottom of the breast. I'm told they are not infections, but they scare me! The nurse says its ok & will take weeks to heal. I am 3 weeks post surgery.

Christian A. Prada, MD, FACS · Answer

Healing issues are more common with smokers and diabetics.   It is not uncommon however after a reduction to have a separation at the lower aspect of the areola or the inverted T junction in the crease.  This usually heals with minimal scarring over time.  Be patient, work with your surgeon closely and things will work out.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Although difficult to give you accurate advice without viewing pictures, the types of superficial wound healing problems you describe do tend to heal over the course of a few weeks,  usually without long-term sequelae. Sometimes, if the scars in these areas are wider, patients benefit from scar revision surgery down the line. Best wishes.

'Slough' forming after mastopexy. Have I caused this? What is the treatment? How long will it take to heal?

Answers (2)