Will this TT blister heal on its own? Worried (Photo)

Question

I had extended tummy tuck on 5/10/15 about 4 weeks ago. About 5 days I got really bloated at work and was wearing a tight compression garment. I developed these blisters very quickly the next morning, they are not on the incision site. I am terrified it is necrotic, but it may be a normal healing blister .. any advice ?

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, usually blisters caused by tension from an overlying dressing are superficial and will go on to heal.  However, your physician would need to do a proper assessment to get a better sense of the depth of injury.  They will also be able to provide specific instructions about wound care, since keeping it covered and clean will likely decrease the chance of infection.

Jane M. Rowley, MD · Answer

Those areas look like they should heal.  Keep moist with ointment of some sort and avoid excess heat or cold or really tight pressure.  But definitely call your surgeon, I'm sure they will be happy to look at it.  Jane

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

There does appear to be partial thickness skin injury, worse on one side than the other. The shallower looks on its way to healing. The deeper one, while may heal after a longer period of time without issue, should be seen by your surgeon so the best treatment can be recommended.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Great question.  The time that it will take a blister to heal and if it will heal completely without any additional care depends on the depth of the tissue injury.  The only way to know this is to examine the wound closely and watch for signs of either wound healing or deeper wound injury.  Usually conservative care is recommended such as protection from additional trauma including:-pressure-excessive heat-excessive cold-rubbing-etcAll the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your post. Yes, this will most likely heal on its own. It may be the result of a small area of the upper flap that had a diminished circulation. I would ask your surgeon how he/she would like for you to take care of it. Best wishes.

J. Brad Turner, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear of your difficulties.  That area of the tummy tuck has diminished sensation for several weeks to months.  Make sure your keeping it well padded and follow your surgeons recommendations for wound care.  They should go on to heal given how well your incision is healing.Best of luck

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

If you developed this blister several weeks following your surgery, this is not part of the normal healing process.  Let your surgeon know about this as soon as possible and have them examine you.  It does appear that there is some skin necrosis and cellulitis and this area may need to be treated with antibiotics or possible surgery.  Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.

Will this TT blister heal on its own? Worried (Photo)

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