Wound separation after breast reduction. What is the black spot? Does it look bad? (Photos)

Question

Just had breast reduction surgery 3 weeks ago, noticed these two openings 2 days ago. I saw my PS and he told me to wash it and cover it with a bandaid, and it should heal on its own. My question is rhoug, what is the black spot on the opening at the bottom of my breast?

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear emi1591,I would suggest you to follow your surgeon's instructions. The black spot is probably a stitch so you might consider a visit to your plastic surgeon to get it removed. This type of wounds usually heals well.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Giovanna Ghafoori, MD · Answer

Hi, Eml. Congratulations on your breast reduction!  Small wound issues, esspecially right beneath the nipple and right at the center incision at the infra-mammary fold, are not uncommon following a breast reduction or breast lift. The tissue in this area has traveled quite a distance and is under more tension and the circulation more strained. Also, the stitches required to hold everything in place puts more strain on the local tissue circulation.  A small section of fat and skin in these areas might die, resulting in a waxy, yellow-white appearance (called fibrin). A bit of black appearance may also form in this tissue and may be the "black dot;" however, some sutures are colored, and it may be the know of the suture showing through. These little areas may get a little worse before they get better: the fibrin tissue will slowly come out and be replaced with a pink tissue, the wound will then also begin contracting, shrinking, and filling in, and then it will heal. Your surgeon will be able to guide you through this process.Best of luck, and I hope you heal up promptly and are enjoying your results! Dr. Ghafoori

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

The wound issues that you are having are not uncommon at all with a breast reduction and should heal in relatively short order. Because the resolution of the photo is very limited, it is impossible to precisely assess the black spot. It could represent a stitch or a small amount of tissue that needs to be cleaned off. Your best bet is to discuss this with your plastic surgeon at your next visit (if it is somewhat soon) and have him/her examine the area.Steven Turkeltaub, MD

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

Always difficult to comment without an examination but this is likely to be a stitch. Best to see your PS for advice.

Wound separation after breast reduction. What is the black spot? Does it look bad? (Photos)

Answers (4)