I have a wound separation after tummy tuck April 12 2018, advice on what is going on? (photos)

Thanks for your question! Based upon your photos (thanks for sharing them!), I’d say that you’re going to need to have that area cleaned out, irrigated with antibiotic solution, any remaining stitch material removed, then you’re probably going to need a negative pressure dressing like VAC wound therapy. That should close the area up in 4-6 weeks. If you’re a smoker, that could’ve led to this open wound for sure. If you’re not, then I’m sorry; bum luck! Best of luck to you moving forward from here! 

Thanks for your inquiry and sorry for your struggles.  Unfortunately wounds can occur for various reasons.  The most important thing is that your surgeon appears highly involved in addressing it.  Ask him/her about silver dressings,  I have had some acceleration in wound healing times using them, good luck.  

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  Your wound is at the area that would be most expected if you did get one. It is at the area with the most tension, at the middle of the incision, along with the most compromised vascularure after such a procedure. Fluid collections are another reason that you may experience a wound.  On your photos, i do not see any signs of infection and it appears to have some good granulation areas without necrotic tissue, indicating adequate healing. It sounds as if you have a combination of the two. Your wound should heal with good hygiene and local wound care. I would discuss with your surgeon as the modalities for ultimate closure include allowing the wound to heal by itself, wound VAC, or surgical closure.  While, the first would be desired, and then scar revision if needed in future for poor scarring, surgical procedure vision would be warranted for persistent seroma/drainage, infection, or worsening of the wound. In meantime, I would continue with good wound care. Hope that this helps. Best wishes for what appears to be a wonderful result.  

Thank you for the question and photos. It is difficult to answer your question without examining you however from reviewing your photos you may benefit from applying a wound VAC. This may help expedite the closure. It is best to discuss that with your board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Dear  robbinrobinson,this type of wound is not uncommon after tummy tuck. It is usually caused by poor blood flow. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon, follow your surgeon's instructions and keep your wound clean and covered. It can take few weeks or months for wound to fully heal. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery