Hole under breast 3 weeks after lift & implants. Any suggestions? (photos)

Question

I had what looked to be a infected area. I contacted my Dr & got a script for ointment. 7 days later I noticed a hole that seem to get bigger each day & looks to be stitches ripped or ripping. Im concerned the hole will get too big. Is this normal? Is it something that needs attention or will heal itself from the inside out w/ continuing the ointment treatment. I use ointment 2 x a day & wash with soap & water. Attached is day 1 of my concern then the size difference from day 6 & day 7 (today)

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry and excelleny pictures.  A wound at the t-junction where all the incisions come together is not uncommon after a mastopexy, reduction, or combination with an implant.  If there is no implant, a wound of this size is rarely a concern.  However with an underlying implant it can be a source of infection that requires meticulous care.  Please continue to closely follow your surgeon's instructions in terms of woundcare and activity restrictions.  Good Luck.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks for sharing your concerns with us. In my practice for cases like yours to start I recommend local wound care with an antibacterial soap and to maintain the wound dry and clean. Also I suggest to follow your plastic surgeon instructions. Respectfully, Dr. Emmanuel Mallol.-

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and pictures.  A wound in the location of the breast as you have is common after the type of procedure you had.  Typically, these wounds will get "worse" before they get better.  Continue to keep the area clean and perform wound care as directed by your surgeon.  This wound will most likely heal well as long you have good nutrition (high protein intake) and do not smoke.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  Of the complications that can occur after a breast lift, yours is one of the most common that is seen.  Although it is difficult to be patient, you will need to closely follow the instructions of your surgeon moving forward to ensure optimal healing and prevention of infection.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

The most tensioned area of the wound/skin closure sometimes opens. Normal wound care usually allows head;ing by secondary intention over a month+. If you want to help speed up I offer my patients PRP infusion therapy sessions..

Hole under breast 3 weeks after lift & implants. Any suggestions? (photos)

Answers (8)