How can I help this wound under my breast heal? (Photo)

Question

I am 7 weeks post breast reduction op and all is going well except where the vertical scar meets the horizontal scar under my left breast. This area has become open in appearance, yellow with a white surround. It is moist and doesn’t hurt but despite wearing inadine dressing for 10 days (changing daily) it is still open. What is the best way to help this wound heal? I’m worried it is or will become infected. My nurse says it isn’t but why will it not heal?

Bryan Armijo, MD · Answer

This area that you are describing is the most vulnerable for wound breakdown after a breast reduction. From the photo, this small wound appears healthy with no signs of infection. It may take several weeks to months for this wound to completely heal. Follow the wound care instructions of your surgeon and let the office know if you feel that healing becomes stagnant as they may recommend changing up your care at that point. Watch this area for redness or drainage as these signs can indicate infection. Continue to be patient as this area heals, and you will begin to notice it getting smaller!

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.
Keep the area clean and dry. It will take time to heal. Keep in touch with your surgeon for his/her instructions. Best wishes.

Matthew A. DelMauro, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question. (Keep in mind that an in-person consultation is necessary for the best advice.) I'm sorry to hear about the trouble you have had after surgery. Wound healing complications are not uncommon after breast reduction surgery. There are many risk factors for wound healing complications; not knowing your history makes it difficult to identify your risk factors. Local wound care is the treatment. You should follow up closely with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!
Matthew A. DelMauro, M.D.

Mark Soldin, MBChB · Answer

Many thanks for your query.T junction breakdown is common after breast reduction. As long as the wound is kept clean, it will mend nicely. Time to closure of the wound can very a bit - about 6-8 weeks should see a closed wound.I advise my patients who have wound problems to wash the wound with hibiscrub soap and water at every dressing change - this helps prevent infection and speeds closure.BestMark

Michelle Roughton, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  I have seen this before, it is not uncommon.  The wound is at the 'triple point' where your scars come together.  It appears, from the photo, to be partial thickness.  It will heal by keeping it clean and is very unlikely to result in an infection.  Best of luck to you.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Its not uncommon to experience wound breakdown in that area after breast reduction surgery.  You should follow your surgeons post operative advice carefully.  I usually advise my patients to shower twice daily and dry the area with a hair dryer on the lowest setting before applying a dressing.  This tends to look worse than it usually is and heals without any further intervention in the majority of cases

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

It is a common site of wound breakdown as it carries a degree of tension from the skin. Based on the photo you don't seem to manifest any sign of infection. Follow your surgeon's post-op instructions and always keep the wound dry and clean.

How can I help this wound under my breast heal? (Photo)

Answers (7)

More Breast Reduction Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (7)

More Breast Reduction Questions

Can axillary breast tissue in my armpit be removed with a breast lift or reduction surgery?

Long Haul Flight - I have a history of swollen feet and legs after long haul flights generally. Can I fly in July?

How long does post op swelling last?

How common are dog ears in breast reduction surgeries and how can we avoid getting them?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS