Direct to Implant - Recovery Questions

NNS121317

I had BMX with direct implant reconstruction on 10/8. I knew my nipple could not be saved due to the location of my tumor, but so much skin was removed during surgery I ended up with smaller implants than we had agreed - the surgeon placed the biggest implant that could be covered by the remaining skin.

The incision looked pretty good at my post-op on 10/29, but tonight I noticed it has reopened in a few spots and is turning purple, despite me using Aquaphor and keeping it covered with gauze. It doesn't hurt, but most of my breast is still numb. I wear a sports bra 24/7 and have not been cleared for any exercise or strenuous physical activity, so I don't think it's a situation where I put it under too much pressure.

I'm starting chemo (AC, then T) next week, and after that I will have six weeks of radiation. I'm a little concerned the the open incision might present a problem for getting chemo done, or may continue to be an issue once I have radiation. Does anybody have experience with their incision reopening? How tough is it to heal an open wound during chemo and/or radiation?

Rah2464

I don't have any personal experience with an incision re-opening but you do need to discuss this with your surgeon and oncologist. I would imagine this will push back your chemo/radiation treatment as those procedures will slow healing even further. Sorry you are experiencing this complication.