3 weeks post tummy tuck and my incision is beginning to separate. Is this ok or should I be concerned? (Photo)

Question

I am 3 week post tummy tuck. I went to place Vaseline on my incision and noticed it beginning to seperate. In this same spot a few day ago it was . Is this ok or should I be concerned?

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

This is probably the most common "complication" with tummy tuck surgery. The area in question does not appear to be infected based on this photo and is likely just a minor area of skin breakdown. This can be caused by several things including spitting sutures, slightly inadequate blood supply, or excess tension on the incision. If this is the case, the area should heal just some antibiotic ointment over the next few weeks. If the issue is caused by an underlying seroma or infection, then it could be more of an ordeal. Your best option is to return to your surgeon to have a physical exam to be for certain. Based on this photo, though, my concern level would be low.

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.

Adrian Richards, MBBS, MSc · Answer

Thank you very much for sending us your
photograph.  It does look as if you have
mild separation of your wound just in the middle.  It does look relatively minor at the moment
with no significant surrounding redness (cellulitis).

I think it would be worth keeping a close eye on
the red area around the scar and if it worsens in any way to make an urgent
appointment to see your surgeon.

It is important to have the area dressed regularly
and in our practice we would encourage you to clean the area daily and probably
apply regular Indine dressing.  This has
iodine ointment and helps the wound heal.

If you have not seen your plastic surgeon recently
I think it would certainly be worthwhile seeing them or a member of their team
to discuss the best way forward for you.

Best wishes.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

YES!! Seek immediate medical help or return to se your surgeon for follow up care.. Starting of a separation after 3 weeks could be a sign of fat necrosis...

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Dear Reneelydon,The blood supply to that area was either just not enough or the tension in that area was a just a little too much.  Regardless it appears that you have a small superficial wound incision separation (wound dehiscence).  There will not be much that you need to do.  I would see your plastic surgeon to make sure.  I suspect he/she will have you perform basic wound care until it heals.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Sanjiv Kayastha, MD · Answer

From the picture it appears that you have a minor area of delayed healing of your incision. These typically heal very well without the need for any intervention. I advise my patients to cleanse the area once or twice daily and then apply antibiotic ointment to the area to keep it moist. The best advice is to see your surgeon as soon as possible so that they may examine you and develop a treatment plan for you.

3 weeks post tummy tuck and my incision is beginning to separate. Is this ok or should I be concerned? (Photo)

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