Should I Be Worried- Small Infection After Breast Uplift? (photo)

Synthetic absorbable sutures such as Vicryl,  (Polyglactin 910)are polyglycolic acid chains that are absorbed by hydrolysis.  That is, water (H20) is required to break down the molecules.  That is why they must be placed under the surface for predictable absorption.  A Vicryl suture will start with a breaking strength of 15 lbs. on the first day, at 14 days about 12 lbs., and at 28 days about  8 lbs. due to hydrolysis.  By that time, the normal wound cannot be pulled apart and the suture has served its' purpose. There is a low grade inflammatory response around the suture mediated by monocytes and lymphocytes.  When implanted, sutures are rapidly coated with tissue proteins.  This creates a locus for bacterial colonization from the hairfollicles and glandular structures in the skin.  Usually the body's defense mechanisms deal with the bacteria, but sometimes a small abscess develops and breaks out in the wound.  This is commonly called a stitch abscess or "spitting sutures".

Before antibiotics, it was observed that an abscess that remained sealed often led to septicemia and death.  An abscess that was lanced and drained had higher survival rates.  Despite antibiotics, the same principle applies.  Drain and clean all abscesses.

You appear to have a typical "stitch abscess".  Since you have an implant, you should have your surgeon examine the wound without delay and remove any remaining suture material.  Betadine, drainage, removal of suture material, and antibiotics usually resolves the problem.  Persistent festering would suggest the possibility of MRSA(Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus).

Copious serous (straw colored drainage) would raise the possibility of a contaminated implant.

If an implant is exposed or infected, have it removed ASAP.  Do not try to save it.  You may get lucky, but if not, you may lose breast tissue or a nipple areola and be condemned to years of reconstructive surgery.   Removal of a contaminated implant usually leads to rapid resolution of the infection.   It is inconvenient, but wise.  Best wishes. Knowledge is power.  Luis F. Villar MD FACS

Sounds like you have done all that you alone can do.  I would very strongly recommend calling your surgeon and being seen as a course of antibiotics sooner rather than later would likely be beneficial.  Good luck.

Minor wound healing issues along the incision often seen after a mastopexy. Seldom is this the result of infection. Management is usually keeping the wounds cleaned with soap and water allowing time to close the defect.