When does the risk for wound dehiscence go down?

Question

In a breast lift procedure. It’s common to get wound dehiscence at the t junction area. But when does the risk of this go down post op? At how many days or weeks are you less likely to get it ?

Josh Olson, MD · Answer

The highest-risk window for small openings in your incisions—especially at the "T-junction" in an anchor/lollipop lift—is typically the first 2 to 3 weeks following your procedure. After about 3 weeks, the risk of wound dehiscence drops significantly if healing has been normal, and by about 4 weeks, the tissue strength is usually much better. However, nothing is "zero risk."

If you see increasing drainage, widening redness, or sudden opening in your incisions, or experience fever or worsening pain, contact your surgeon quickly—early management can prevent a small issue from becoming a much bigger one.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

In general, if 3 weeks have passed since your lift or reduction, you are out of the risk period for having a T point wound. While it can still happen, it would be extremely rare to get one that far out without any signs of it before that.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear newgirl14,
the risk of wound dehiscence will go down once the wound is healed. So, within the first few weeks after the surgery. I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

There are many factors which can contribute to wound dehiscence. Smoking, diabetes, infection, excess tension at the repair, poor skin, quality, etc. If the incision is put together without these prior potentially complicating factors involved, the tissue lines should be well healed and strong at approximately four weeks, so that the risk of dehiscing the wound should be very small at this point. The risk of wound dehiscence is why doctors recommend gentle bra support for several weeks after the surgery in order to take the tension off of the repair until your body has healed well enough .

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I recommend an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and be measured. After I measure and discuss goals with my patients, we then look at pictures of women (my patients) with similar measurements. You get to see actual results and the surgeon's experience and not a virtual idea of what can be achieved. Women tell me that this process is very helpful. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

The wound can dehisce at any time during the healing process. At one month, the wounds are usually only at 15% of the intact strength. I avoid the T junction by using a technique called The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Once you have reach 6 weeks, you are usually healed well enough to do full activities and not worry about dehiscence.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each week that passes allows the incision to strengthen for up to one year.  The tension placed on the scars will influence your risk of wound dehiscence.  Once you have reached three months post op with no healing complications the risk of dehiscence would be low.  It is important to follow all post op instructions and avoid any nicotine as advised by your surgeon.

When does the risk for wound dehiscence go down?

Answers (8)

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