Hole under breast after breast reduction (anchor). What should I do? (Photo)

Question

Hello. I got a Breast reduction on December 1st. I understood recovery would be hard especially having two little boys (5&3) at home. Things seemed to be healing fine up until my left Breast started to get a hole underneath the "t" I went to the PS and my doctors nurse said everything looked perfect & that it was completely normal. The Nurse also gave me some medicated gauze, told me to wash it everyday with antibacterial soap. Seems like it's not getting better!!! When and will this ever end?!

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your pictures.  This wound breakdown can occur.  It sounds like your plastic surgeon is doing all the right things.  It may take up to 8 weeks for this area to completely heal.

Ellen A. Janetzke, MD · Answer

With this type of wound healing it can sometimes look like it is getting worse before it starts to get better. The exposed tissue becomes red and beefy looking and can bleed more. However, in most cases this is healthy tissue and a good sign with wound healing.  It is not uncommon to have problems healing this "T" zone area of a wise pattern breast reduction. This area is under tension and is getting the least blood supply. Continue to regularly follow up with your plastic surgeon. Although this can be frustrating, try to be patient and it should continue to heal.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

is the junction of the vertical and horizontal incisions.  What you have is common and it will heal with good wound care.  Continue to follow the instructions of your surgeon and this will be a distant memory.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure. The complication you are experiencing does happen  occasionally (related to blood flow/tension in the area) and tends to go on to heal without long-term sequelae, except the possible need for scar revision in the future. At your stage of healing, sometimes the area opens further before it continues to close…I would suggest continued close follow-up with your plastic surgeon.   Follow his/her instructions when it comes to wound care and keeping the area clean/covered. Sometimes, removal  of an exposed suture and/or any unhealthy tissue present  will help expedite the healing process.Best wishes for an outcome that you will be very pleased with long-term.

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and photos.  What you are describing and what I see in your photos is not uncommon after a breast reduction with an anchor "inverted T" scar.  This area has the most tension and the worst blood flow.  Your pictures show continued improvement with nice pink, healing tissue.  Try to be patient, you will eventually heal this area, but the scar will be slightly wider.  Best to follow your surgeon's wound care instructions.  Best wishes.

Hole under breast after breast reduction (anchor). What should I do? (Photo)

Answers (5)

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