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Tummy Tuck Incision Opening?

I am two weeks out from a tummy tuck and it seems like my incision is opening. It is like this for about 4 inches on each side, where the drains were and the tape had fallen off. I talked to the doctor and he put me on antibiotics but it is getting worse not better. Any thoughts? I don't know how to attach a picture.

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by hopeful lilly in Houston, TX

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Non Healing Abdominoplasty Incision

The picture you provided us with is one of an inflamed, non healing wound. The appropriate treatment at this time would be: (1) culture the wound; (2) place on topical antibiotics; (3) place on culture specific oral antibiotics. I would leave the wound open sufficiently to drain any bacteria present, but would judiciously place a few staples to keep the wound from complete dehiscence (completely opening up). That having been said, your plastic surgeon is the one... more

Tummy Tuck Incision

With local care this should heal. However, the scar may end up less than ideal and a revision under local anesthesia when the tissue has softened up may be needed. This will take anywhere from 4 months to 8 months to happen.

Tummy tuck incision opening

Hello, The most reason for a tummy tuck incision to open at this point is secondary to non-healing. Healing could be delayed or prevented if there is an infection or if there is not sufficient blood supply to the area. The antibiotics may help with the infection but will not help with the blood supply issue if that is the case. Keep your waist somewhat flexed, drink plenty of water, take your multi vitamins and see your plastic surgeon regularly. You may need to... more

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Abdominoplasty incision problems

The most important thing is to address the possibility of infection. The skin looks a bit irritated which could be a result of infection, tape sensitivity, or just inflammation from recent removal of the drains. If there is any purulent drainage, then it should be treated with antibiotics and possibly have the drainage cultured. It also needs to be determined if there is too much internal pressure that is causing the incision to open. Seroma accumulation should be ruled out. If there is... more

Tummy Tuck

Your picture doesn’t look like its opening. Have you had fever? If so you need to see your Surgeon. Your Doctor put your on antibiotic that is good. Be careful not to pick up anything heavier than 10 pounds. Make sure you are wearing your compression garment and protecting your incision with your padding.

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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.