Necrosis or scab 5wk post tummy tuck? (photos)

Abdominoplasty scars can be quite complex, ranging from the simple hypertrophic scar to a multiplane inflamed keloid. Pigmentation, discoloration, chronic inflammation, scar visibility can all occur in the short term. We begin each treatment with combination therapy using Yellow broadband BBL, Vbeam, fractional erbium, intralesional IIT, and scar modulation. Start with a combination of Plato's Scar Serum massaged twice daily after one week of epithelialization followed by Luminase/Exfolase. Scar consultation and revision may be recommended.

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Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon6

Thanks for the question and excellent photos.It is common to have some wound issues when a vertical scar is used during a tummy tuck. From the photos, it does not seem that you have an infection. Sometimes being patient and doing simple wound care will get the best results.As long as you are not showing signs of infection: fever, redness, pain and foul drainage, then its best to let the wound close. A debridement will result in a larger wound that will require more complicated wound care and a longer time to heal.Once the wound is closed and a year has gone by, your plastic surgeon can try to remove the scars without much risk.Good Luck.

Hello, This is a common area to have wound healing delays. However, your area appears healthy and free of infection. One option is to remove the scab and do wound care, but it's often better to allow the scab to stay there as your body's own "dressing" and it will fall off when the underside has healed. All the best,Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Dear redmesa104,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

That is an area of necrosis that has formed a scab or dry eschar. Necrosis is not uncommon in that spot on the wound.  It is caused by decreased blood supply and tension.  It looks clean and should heal in with the possibility of a slightly thicker scar in that area.  Talk to your surgeon about your concerns.  Good luck, Jane. 

Hi there, thanks for your question. As others have noted, this is not uncommon in situations when there is a T-point to the incision. Blood flow is less in this situation, and often times tension is high. The combination leads to an increased likelihood of wound-related complications. An in-person exam would be needed to make a full assesment, however it does not look like there are any acute signs of infections. I would follow-up with your plastic surgeon to ensure correct care. In time, once things have healed, a scar revision might be possible to lessen the appearance of scarring.

Thank you for your question. I am sorry this happened to you. What we are seeing is from lack of blood supply lead to necrosis. The black part is necroses skin and it will fall. You need good local wound care and it will heal. Scar can be revised if needed later. Please continue to follow up with your PS

Thank you for your question. It is very common with a "T" type incision to have wound healing issues right at that "T". A combination of tension on the wound and blood supply to the area is to blame. Fortunately, yours is a  small area that, with good local wound care, will heal without intervention. Once healed, a scar revision, a few months down the road can improve the appearance. Let your surgeon know your concerns. Best Wishes,Dr. M