5 Week Post Full Tummy Tuck: Is This Necrosis?

I am freaking out. My incision has been healing beautifully and then today I noticed this when I got out of the shower. It is about the size of a matchstick head in the center. I have an appt with my PS first thing tomorrow but I am so worried right now so I thought I would bring it to the experts! So, what do you think? Thanks for your help.

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8 Doctor Answers | Asked by CantWait77

Doctor Answers (8)
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Stitch abscess after tummy tuck

What you have in the incision is a small suture abscess which can for around dissolving sutures. The remainder of the suture can be removed by your surgeon and such events are a common nuisance for some. It is best to keep the area clean and lightly covered. Best of luck, peterejohnsonmd

Minor Tummy Tuck Complication

You do NOT have skin death (Necrosis). You are healing beautifully and appear to have most likely a reaction to a deep stitch (aka "spitting suture"). Once the stitch is removed, the wound will heal rapidly. And - do not worry - the removal of the guilty stitch does not hurt. Peter A Aldea, MD

Incisional Concern after Tummy Tuck

I agree with your assessment that your incision looks good for 5 weeks following your tummy tuck. I see no sign of necrosis on the photos. The area that you are concerned about most likely represents a reaction to a suture placed just under the skin and will be short-lasting. When you see your plastic surgeon tomorrow, he/ she will be able to reassure you.

No, don't worry about necrosis

Necrosis is when a portion of the skin does not survive the surgery. It turns black and leathery. What you have may either be a small stitch reaction, a small stitch infection or a scar that is starting to become thick (it is hard to tell which from the photo). Although not urgent, you should see your Plastic Surgeon to determine if it needs treatment or not.

Healing after tummy tuck

You have nothing to worry about in all likelihood. these small areas of delayed wound healing can and do occur and usually heal without any problem. You should call you PS and discuss this to make your mind at ease.

Wound problems after tummy tuck

What you are showing is not necrosis. Necrosis is death of a part of the skin due to lack of blood supply or infection. Necrosis results in an area of dead skin. It can show up as a blister, which fills with fluid and then it pops, leaving an area of dead skin. The area of dead skin will be purplish to black. What you show is probably a small stitch reaction which your plastic surgeon will guide you through.

Tummy tuck

This looks like a small suture that may be spitting. It does not look infected. I am sure that your plastic surgeon will help to put you at ease

Necrosis?

Necrosis usually occurs in the midline and can lead to separation of the wound. you do not have the typical findings of black, hard, dry shoe-leather skin. you appear to have a suture abcess, ie sterile abcess, ie suture reaction etc. the name says it all. its a chemical irritation to the dissolving stitch usually due to superficial placement, although it can happen with perfect placement as well. wash with soap and water, put antibiotic ointment and a band aid usually treats it... more