Belly button discharge after tummy tuck

A foul smelling discharge from an open wound is abnormal!  Causes may range from very simple to very complex...which could be potentially dangerous. Bottom line is STOP messing around and go see your surgeon immediately.  In general, complications following surgery are usually treated... more

Sometimes discharge or small opening can be associated with "spitting sutures." Spitting suture is a term used when a buried, absorbable suture becomes exposed, therefore, losing it's absorbability. These spitting sutures can be easily removed by your surgeon. A quick visit back to your surgeon... more

After Abdominoplasty or Tummy Tuck, there can be some delayed healing of the umbilicus (belly-button/navel).  Healing of the umbilicus depends on the remaining blood supply from the abdominal wall, and occasionally this can be compromised especially when the abdominal wall (rectus diastasis) is tightened... more

The belly button usually heals within 2-3 weeks after an abdominoplasty. depending on the type of sutures used, an infected suture, a "spitting suture" or a suture that should have come out but is still in may be the answer. A quick visit back to your surgeon should easily clarify the source of the... more

There are a variety of issues that can occur with the umbilicus after a tummy tuck. Your surgeon would want to know you are having a problem so they can evaluate you and prescribe the proper care. Most like likey it will heal on its own but you should go and be seen.

Ginny, Three weeks out from your tummy tuck your belly button should be healed.  There are occasions when it takes slightly longer to heal, especially if the circulation to the belly button has been injured (sometimes unavoidable).  Malodorous drainage may also be a result of an infected deep stitch... more

As reviewed below, the source of your problem is most likely to be, with about 90% certaintly, either a suture or delayed healing. If it is the former, it may require removal. This is typically a minor procedure. If it is slow healing, it may take some time, usually 3 weeks with wound care. However, this is... more

Sometimes the umbilicus has some delayed healing. Usually they go on to heal without any problems. You may want your surgeon to evaluate you. Sometimes there is a retained suture that prevents it from healing on its own. I am not a big fan of peroxide because it can be tissue toxic. Usually I recommend... more

Ginny, For the most part, the belly button (umbilicus) heals very well after abdominoplasty. However, occasionally you may have a small area of skin breakdown at the incision or a small infection. It is important that you see your surgeon to make sure everything is okay. Even if you do have skin breakdown... more

Hello,   This might just be something small or it could be a suture problem. Your surgeon should be seeing you through this to be certain the problem resolves. It might take a few months to sort out.   Best Regards,   JPD