Post-Surgical Wound Healing Concerns: Yellowish Tissue in Eyebrow Laceration Repair Site
Case at a Glance
A 23-year-old male presents with concerns about yellowish tissue and wound appearance 14 days post-eyebrow laceration repair, 4 days after suture removal.
Patient's Story
The patient sustained a deep laceration above his right eyebrow approximately two weeks prior, requiring primary closure with sutures. The wound was sutured on the day of injury, and sutures were removed on post-operative day 10 as scheduled. Since suture removal, he has been applying topical antibiotic ointment (Bepanthen Plus) twice daily for wound care. The patient reports he may have been over-applying the ointment, using thick layers rather than the recommended thin application. He is currently traveling abroad, which has limited his access to follow-up medical care.
Initial Assessment
On day 14 post-injury (day 4 post-suture removal), the patient noticed yellowish-white tissue within the wound bed. He reports mild surrounding edema but denies significant pain, erythema, or warmth at the site. He describes occasional strange sensations in the area, which he attributes to normal healing processes. The patient expresses concerns about proper wound hygiene and whether eyebrow hair growth might interfere with healing or become incorporated into scar formation.
The Diagnostic Journey
Based on patient description and photographic evidence, the wound appears to have excess topical medication buildup and possible over-moisturization. The yellowish appearance is likely related to accumulated ointment and normal fibrinous exudate rather than purulent material, given the absence of classic infection signs (pain, heat, progressive erythema). The patient's concern about hair follicles is noted, as eyebrow hair can indeed grow through healing tissue.
Final Diagnosis
Post-surgical wound with probable medication buildup and over-moisturization. No clear signs of secondary bacterial infection based on patient description.
Treatment Plan
Immediate cessation of topical antibiotic application. Gentle cleansing with soap and water during showering to remove accumulated medication and assess true wound appearance. Implementation of proper wound hygiene with daily gentle cleaning. Patient education on appropriate wound care techniques and signs of infection requiring medical attention.
Outcome and Follow-up
Patient advised to discontinue current topical treatment regimen and reassess wound appearance after thorough but gentle cleansing. Instructions provided for monitoring infection signs and seeking local medical care if symptoms develop. Follow-up recommended with primary physician upon return from travel for wound assessment and scar management discussion.