Breast Reduction - hole developed. Is this a splitting suture? (photos)

Question

I'm exactly 3wks post BR. 36GG to a D cup. My incisions were closed until tonight. After a bath I noticed a hole with butter-like fluid draining once I put a little pressure on. I then had some white discharge. Not sore, no redness, no temperature and it didn't smell. Have cleaned with alcohol wipe and will apply a gauze under bra. Is it a suture?! How long before it heals?

Payman Danielpour, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very likely that's what you have shown is a spitting stitch and this is very common in breast reduction surgery. To close this type of incision many buried stitches are placed to reapproximate to take tension off the closure. Sometimes one or two or more stitches will spit and desist treated wood local care using Neosporin twice a day.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Suture issue, fat necrosis, or both. See you surgeon for in person care ASAP.........................

Daniel M. Calloway, MD · Answer

Breast reduction surgery often requires the placement of hundreds of buried stitches in order to align the tissues to achieve smooth contours.  These sutures will slowly dissolve over time as they are being broken down by the body's immune system.  Sometimes the body will "reject" the suture, and spit it out of the skin similar to what happens with a splinter in the skin.  This is known as a spitting stitch or suture.  If there is inflammation and pus, this is known as a stitch abscess.  Most surgeons recommend cleansing the area with mild soap and water, and then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound. The area will typically close over several days.  Persistence of the opening suggests a retained suture, and will need to be addressed by your surgeon.I would recommend reporting the problem to your surgeon, so he or she may follow up on the issue with you.Good luck with the rest of your recovery!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It sounds like you had a suture abscess. If that is the case, the hole usually closes on its own with good wound care. Best to check in with your surgeon.

Breast Reduction - hole developed. Is this a splitting suture? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Possible suture

Answer: Possible suture

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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Breast Reduction - hole developed. Is this a splitting suture? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Possible suture

Answer: Possible suture

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.