Is it normal for incision sites to leak puss after surgery?

Question

I am 4 days post op and I just noticed some discharge coming from one of the incisions under my breast. It is just a little bit and it doesn't hurt. I just showered for the first time last night and changed the gauze. Is this normal?

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Are you sure it is puss?  Or is it some separation of the incision?  Best to be seen by your surgeon in person to be properly evaluated.

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

Pus is not considered normal after surgery, and might indicate an infection.  It should be checked within 24 hours by your surgeon and/or their associates.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure.  Although some drainage from incision lines is not unusual after breast reduction procedures, the drainage of “puss” is not normal. Puss, by definition implies an  infectious process. Whether or not you are really draining puss versus serum, is best evaluated by your plastic surgeon, who will always be your best resource. I would suggest that you request follow-up (earlier than already scheduled if necessary) for in-person evaluation. Best wishes; hopefully, you will be very pleased with the longer-term outcome of the procedure performed.

Robert Savage, MD (retired) · Answer

Pus is not normal and usually a sign of infection.You obviously should check and discuss right away with your doctor.A little bit of blood or serum oozing early after surgery is common but job number one is make sure no infection.

Is it normal for incision sites to leak puss after surgery?

Answers (4)

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