Is It Normal for a Tummy Tuck Incision to Be Splitting Open?

i had liposuction and a tummy tuck and the incision is splitting apart and getting more and more red. is this normal? my surgeon said it was but when i went to a doctor for a second opinion he said it wasn't but he couldn't do anything about it becuase he was not my surgeon. i don't know what to do or think.

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abdomen redness incision

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by notworthit in evanston, wy

Doctor Answers (5)
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Tummy tuck incisions.

Unfortunately this is a complication of the procedure and is referred to as an incisional dehiscence which can have multiple causes including poor nutrition post-op, infection, smoking and increased tension. If you can, you may want to increase your oral protein intake to 60 gm per day with a protein supplement. Look out for infection and protect the incision by keeping slightly flexed at the waist. Other things that can contribute to it are smoking and even second hand smoke, as well... more

Open wound followng tummy tuck

Smokers are definitely more prone to this problem. If the wound is open, you should be performing some form of wound care. A separation of 1-3 mm may be of little concern whereas a 1 cm opening is a different matter and may require more agressive treatment.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

32 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

The opening post surgery is not normal

The wound dehesince post surgery is unusual an needs treatment. You needto discus your concern with your doctor and if not happy with your doctors care,seek another plastic surgeon. There are many reasons for the wound opening including poor nutritient, smoking, too tight closure,infection .

Kamran Khoobehi, MD

28 reviews

New Orleans Plastic Surgeon

Tummy tuck incision opening

Your abdominal incision really should not be open. If you can find another surgeon in your area who is willing to assist you with wound care as the incision closes, that would be optimal. If a very large segment is open, you may need to have this cleaned and closed in the operating room. If you are experiencing any fevers or drainage, you should either call your initial surgeon or see another surgeon right away. Good luck, /nsn.

Opening Incision

Strictly speaking, separation of a surgical incision is never "normal" but is not uncommon. The fact that it is associated with redness means that it is inflammed and may be infected. Your surgeon should make clear to you what he/she thinks is going on and how it needs to be managed.