Tummy tuck incision looks to be opening and draining 3 weeks post op. Is this normal? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck with lipo. I am 3 weeks post op. the incision area looks to be opening and a kind of clear orange fluid started leaking out about week ago. over the past day it had changed to a yellowish color and still draining. I was given antibiotics by the ER DR he said it looked Ok last week. I cant see my PS cause this was done out of the country I did email him pics and was told to press the tummy to get as much fluid as I can out in the shower and put neosporin on it. please help.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

The incision itself does not look to be too much of a problem.  Although this is not normal it could just be spitting stitches.  The drainage however is a major issue.  Having an opening in the wound and drainage is a set up for infection.  You need to be treated by a local plastic surgeon, which may be difficult to find. You are likely to need more than just oral antibiotics.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the complication you are experiencing.  Superficial separation of the incision line is a known complication after tummy tuck surgery.   Close follow up with your plastic surgeon will be in your best interests; sometimes removal of a exposed suture and/or removal of any unhealthy tissue will expedite healing. Otherwise, wound care regimens will differ from one plastic surgeon to another.  Generally, this will involve application of some type of sterile dressing ( in my practice I use a non-stick dressing covered by a sterile dressing). You should have peace of mind that these types of wound healing problems generally go on to heal over the course of the next several weeks,  without long-term sequelae. Also important to concentrate on a healthy diet,  including good protein source. Occasionally, in the event of a wider scar, scar revision surgery may be helpful down the line.  Best wishes.

Allen Gabriel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question and pic.  I recommend establishing care with a local board certified  plastic surgeon for evaluation.  You may have some "spitting sutures" that may have to be removed in the near future. Best of luck.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Post operative complications such as these are the reason most qualified plastic surgeons discourage medical tourism as surgical standards are at best compromised and its practically impossible to return to your surgeon for appropriate management.  You would be best to see a fully qualified plastic surgeon for wound management.

Ron Hazani, MD, FACS · Answer

Preforming a tummy tuck on patients with high body mass index can lead to a higher complication rate such as infection, prolonged wound healing, and wound separation. Your photos demonstrate a mild form of wound healing delay. Make sure you follow up with your PS on a regular basis.

Tummy tuck incision looks to be opening and draining 3 weeks post op. Is this normal? (Photo)

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Answer: Tummy tuck incision

Answer: Tummy tuck incision

Answer: Tummy tuck incision looks to be opening and draining 3 weeks post op. Is this normal?

Answer: Tummy tuck incision looks to be opening and draining 3 weeks post op. Is this normal?

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Tummy tuck incision looks to be opening and draining 3 weeks post op. Is this normal? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Tummy tuck incision

Answer: Tummy tuck incision

Answer: Tummy tuck incision looks to be opening and draining 3 weeks post op. Is this normal?

Answer: Tummy tuck incision looks to be opening and draining 3 weeks post op. Is this normal?

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.