Overlapping scar and open on left side (Photo)

Question

I had full TT with umbilical and ventral hernia repair and muscle tightening 16 days ago, the staples have been removed. I noticed that the upper part of the scar kind of overlaps and also looks bulkier that the lower part. the cut is kind of open from the center but gets better toward the sides, there still liquid coming out but not too much my surgeon didn't put any drainages I used to have hourglass shape however after the surgery it looks different, is it normal? Is the scar going to close completely?

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Slight openings after long incisions are not totally uncommon-- they do occur. This management seems appropriate. However, i would comment that staples are not the best way of closure in today's world. I prefer the self locking absorbable sutures placed in a deep dermis which i have found to give the best long term scars with no cross hatching-- for example as you see with the staples.

Alejandro Nogueira, MD · Answer

Don't panic, this situation is common and will solve spontaneously within weeks, be patient and follow your surgeon's instructions.

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.     Sometimes, removal of an exposed suture and/or unhealthy tissue will help expedite healing.  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.  In regards to the final outcome of the procedure, I would suggest ongoing time and patience. Continue to follow-up with your plastic surgeon on a frequent/regular basis. Best wishes.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Dear Betty68,At 16 days following surgery, your abdomen and waist are still very swollen.  It will take some time for this to go away.  You will want to make sure along the way that you do not have recurrence of the hernia or seroma accumulation.  Follow up with your doctor regularly and noting continuing decrease in the swelling as time goes by will be important.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Virgil Willard, MD (retired) · Answer

You are very early in the post op period. Swelling goes on for 6 months typically. You and your surgeon do need to keep a seroma as a possibility at this point and time however.  Keep your appointments and close follow ups now. Your scars will improve over time. I wish staples could have been avoided if possible.

Overlapping scar and open on left side (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Healing after tummy tuck and ventral hernia

Answer: Healing after tummy tuck and ventral hernia

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Overlapping scar and open on left side (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Healing after tummy tuck and ventral hernia

Answer: Healing after tummy tuck and ventral hernia

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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