I noticed an odor from right breast incision, causing leakage and offensive smell. Is this normal? (photos)

Question

Hi,over the last couple of days I have noticed an odour form my right breast,it's not foul more a weeping smell I do what've some yellowish fluid leaking as well,I still have my steri strips on so can not see the site,I'm due for these to be changed on Wednesday,they were changed two weeks ago. Should I be calling my dr to get it checked earlier? I have no symptoms of fever etc,I have just had an extremely bad cough for over a week which is mild now. I just slight moved my dressing and the smell is quite offensive I'm due for dressing change and appointment Wednesday. is it possible it's an infection? Regards lynette

Robert Heck, MD, FACS · Answer

If you have drainage along with a foul smelling odor coming from your breast incision, I would recommend calling your surgeon's office as soon as possible. Purulent drainage along with a foul smelling odor can be indicative of an infection.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Minor wound healing issues are not uncommon after breast reduction. However a purulent foul-smelling discharge is suggestive of an infection and should be reported immediately to your surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you have drainage and an odor from the drainage, then you should probably see your surgeon to be properly evaluated.

I noticed an odor from right breast incision, causing leakage and offensive smell. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (3)