I am 3 weeks post-op reduction and lift, does everything look normal? (Photos)

Question

I’m about 3 weeks post op, breast reduction and lift from a 38G to around a C/D, and I just wanted to make sure everything looks normal. I’ve been putting a triple antibiotic ointment on the incision areas and setting a gauze pad on top under my bra (that’s the weird square marks). My surgeon and I have talked about the possible necrosis on the left areola and he says everything else is looking normal I’m just paranoid and wanting to double check.

James D. Frost, MD · Answer

It is tough to be wait for results but what you show is a very common post-operative course after breast reduction.  I tell my patients that about 25% will have some difficulty with healing.  You will be surprised how good this will look in a few months.  Don't rush it.  Follow your surgeon's instructions.
Your shape looks great and I'm guessing your back feels better.  You are on the home stretch.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear hdexox,
based on your photos, it looks like you have some areas of wound separation. 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

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You have a few areas of concern where the skin has separated a little and a scab on one nipple. These areas will all heal in on their own. I know it’s scary but these areas will all heal surprisingly well in only a few weeks. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on wound care.

Matthew A. DelMauro, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. (Keep in mind that an in-person consultation is necessary for the best advice.) I'm sorry to hear about the trouble you have had after surgery. Wound healing complications are not uncommon after breast reduction surgery. There are many risk factors for wound healing complications; not knowing your history makes it difficult to identify your risk factors. Local wound care is the treatment. You should follow up with your plastic surgeon so that he/she can evaluate you, address your concerns, and develop a plan of care. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

L. Dwight Baker, MD (retired) · Answer

You have some areas of skin breakdown, minimal to moderate in severity on each side, with the eschars on the left areola.  With proper wound care as guided by your plastic surgeon as it sounds as though you are doing, these should all heal over time.  With such large breasts to be reduced, you can expect areas of slower healing.  These will go on to heal and you will have an excellent result.

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I am 3 weeks post-op reduction and lift, does everything look normal? (Photos)

Answers (5)

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