Split incision at T line after breast reduction. Does this look normal? How long can it take to heal? (Photo)

Question

I had a breast reduction done 5 weeks ago. No complications until about a week ago, when i noticed swelling and redness at the t line with an open wound. My PS prescribed me cephalexin for infection, and mupirocin to put over the wound and then cover with gauze. How is it looking in terms of healing? Should I go in to see my PS again? How long can something like this take to heal? The wound seems bigger, can I do anything to prevent it from growing in size? Thank you so much for your time!

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

This area is the farthest from your blood supply, and is a common area for superficial small breakdowns like yours, or more major ones such as seen in some smokers who refuse to quit (nicotine is a potent vasoconstrictor that can lead to inadequate circulation, dead skin, and this type (or larger) of a problem).Your surgeon is doing all of the things that are appropriate. Don't be afraid to scrub this area in the shower--remember, healthy tissue bleeds (and heals), whereas fibrin, scabs, and crusts only harbor bacteria that can slow your recovery. Ask your surgeon if s/he is OK with soft bristle toothbrush scrubbing of this wound--at 5 weeks the rest of your breast incisions are durable and will not split open more unless this wound remains bacterially contaminated. This is unlikely with wound scrubbing (gently, even if there is a tiny bit of bleeding, this is OK), topical antibiotic ointment, and oral antibiotics.In my opinion antibiotics may actually be less important than the wound scrubbing! Keep that yellow rim around the edge from allowing the wound edges to enlarge--this is where the bacteria like to hide in the warm, wet, dead scabby or fibrin layer, and why it is so vital to keep it scrubbed off to a healthy bleeding base. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction procedure.  Unfortunately, as you mentioned these types of delayed healing problems are not uncommonly encountered, especially at the "T junctions" (related to blood supply and tension concerns). These wounds go on to heal through a process of contraction where the tissues heal from the sides towards the center of the wound; this process usually takes several weeks to occur, depending on the size of the wound. Occasionally, removal of unhealthy tissue (debridement) and/or removal of exposed sutures, may expedite the healing process.   Usually, these types of wounds are healed by the time the patient reaches the 2 month post op mark.
 
Best wishes;  despite the separation/wound it is most likely that you will be pleased with the longer-term outcome of the procedure.

Luis Macias, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not uncommon for this to occur in the area called the T-zone (because of the upside down "T" scar there). It will heal over the next few weeks as there appears to be a healthy bed of tissue in the wound. Once it is all healed, a scar revision can be done if needed, although most of the time it is not very viable because it shrinks and of the location.  It sounds like your surgeon is treating you appropriately and follow your their advice. Best of luck.

Michael Ian Rose, MD · Answer

Unfortunately your incision opened up a little bit and I am sorry to hear/see that.  Good news is that by keeping it clean and dry it will heal on its own over the next couple weeks.  You should be seeing your surgeon weekly to make sure your healing process is going well.  Good Luck

Robert M. Freund, MD · Answer

The small opening you demonstrate in the photo looks clean and healthy. Sometimes the sutures spit or the skin has a minor breakdown at this area and it needs extra time to heal. I think you are doing fine and it should take a couple of weeks to close.For anyone interested in learning more about this procedure, read my book "Cosmetic Breast Surgery - a complete guide from A to double D".

Split incision at T line after breast reduction. Does this look normal? How long can it take to heal? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Incision breakown

Answer: Incision breakown

Answer: Healing Concerns

Answer: Healing Concerns

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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Split incision at T line after breast reduction. Does this look normal? How long can it take to heal? (Photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Incision breakown

Answer: Incision breakown

Answer: Healing Concerns

Answer: Healing Concerns

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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.