Some of my stitches were removed 8 days after the tummy tuck. I now have some spotting of blood on my bandages & navel.

Question

Should I be worried navel bleed still 12 days after tummy tuck.

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

Blood spotting immediately after removal of sutures can be a common thing.  It simply means that in the areas where the sutures were holding the skin together, the removal has disrupted some microscopic blood clots.  In general, this oozing should last only a day or 2 as long as there is no significant separation in the wound edges.  I would only be concerned if the bleeding became profuse or fail to stop on its own.  Certainly, if this is causing anxiety you should contact your plastic surgeon to be seen to be examined.  I always prefer that my patients call me whenever they have even the slightest concern.  You should do the same.Best of luck, Dr. subbio

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. The best way to assess wound healing is in person. A small amount of spotting or drainage is not uncommon but it would be best to contact your Plastic Surgeon and let them rule out anything more serious such as infection or new bleeding.All the best

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  At 12 days, it is common to still have a small amount of drainage from your incision sites as they have not fully healed yet.  Assuming you have not had any significant change to your appearance, and aren't have signs of an infection (spreading redness, increased swelling, worsening pain, etc), all sounds well. Be sure to maintain close follow up with your surgeon.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

What you describe sounds normal although without an in person exam or photos, it is impossible to say for sure. Keep an eye out for any signs of infections (redness, warmth, swelling). And if the bleeding doesn't continue to dissipate then see your surgeon. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Richard Wellington Swift, MD · Answer

Some minor blood spotting is not unusual following suture removal around the umbilicus and abdominal incision following a tummy tuck. However, it is difficult to determine, without a photo or examination, if the spotting is due to just blood spot tin, seroma fluid drainage or infection. Observation and close follow up with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is highly recommended. Signs of infection are chill, fever, redness along the incision site, increased swelling and drainage.

Ravinder Jarial, DO · Answer

Greetings. If there are any concerns, the best option would be to contact your plastic surgeon.  In general, things go well but it would be best to have your surgeon look at you to address any concerns.  Best wishes.

Some of my stitches were removed 8 days after the tummy tuck. I now have some spotting of blood on my bandages & navel.

Answers (6)

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