The Ottawa Clinic

Hi there,In my experience marbles, beads and other stretching devices are most useful when the opening for the umbilicus (belly button) is small and/or shrinking. And, in truth they are only of limited benefit.I am not familiar with their use in a shallow/flat umbilicus where the opening is not constricted.So - waiting is likely to be an important part of your recovery.However, while you are waiting you can discuss with your surgeon the potential role of silicone gel products, scar creams and laser therapies to help keep the scar supple and thin while you recover.5 weeks feels like a long time when you have concerns, but remember it can take months before your result settles and matures enough to draw final conclusions.Best of luck,Dr Nodwell

Good afternoon,Thanks for the pictures and thorough history. Only time will tell what the final result will be. What’s important in your case is that the seroma was recognized and treated appropriately in its early stages. That tends to keep other complications to a minimum.Currently it is too early to know how much of the contour irregularities are from typical swelling and minor reoperation  and how much is more permanent.Some time around 6 months post op, you and your surgeon should have a very good idea where this is headed.Best of luck,Dr Nodwell

Good afternoon,Downtime from redness with Fraxel treatments will depend on a few things - including the sub type of Fraxel laser used - (Dual, Re:pair, Re;store) and the actual energies applied. This will also balance with your skin type and the goals of your treatment.Specific to redness and the treatment of fine lines - usually redness is significantly reduced by 5 days (easily masked with makeup) and gone within 7 days.Some patients will continue to experience areas of dryness or mild irritation for up to two weeks. This usually responds well to mild moisturisers.Excellent sun protection is key to getting your best result.Hope you find this helpful.Take care.Dr. Nodwell

Hi there Lacococo,Of course you and your surgeon will make the final decision about a return to work plan that is safe and effective for your specific circumstances. However, in principle 7 or 8 days off will be sufficient, as long as you are able to return to some form of modification and accommodation to your duties for approximately 6 weeks in total.For day to day Maternal New Born nursing you will be fine - my only concern is with the more strenuous parts of your job helping the new moms and moms to be. You will not be able to do all the lifting pulling and pushing you are used to (pt transfers among other things).If you are comfortable sharing these temporary restrictions with your team, you should do just fine.Congratulations and best of luck with your recovery.Dr Nodwell

Hi Tasha,Though there will be differences of protocol among different surgeons, most will restrict physical activity and encourage ongoing use of a garment until a seroma has resolved.I’m sure your nurse has your best interests at heart but I would reach out to your surgeon for an assessment and his/her opinion.Best of luck with your recovery.Dr Nodwell