Delayed Healing- Tummy Tuck (Photo)

Question

I have a tiny spot on my tummy tuck incision that will not stay healed. It heals over and then a few weeks later, the same spot fills with a yellow liquid that turns white and my surgeon ends up cleaning it out and restarting the healing process. He has already done 1 revision on the area and it is coming up on 1-year post op. All cultures have been clear of bacteria and we are both confused as to why it won’t stay healed. Looking for any advice- have tried oral and topical antibiotics each time

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear ESalsman,
I understand your concern. Based on your photo, it looks like you have spitting suture. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

This is a retained suture that should have dissolved.  Excision of this area along the scar line should correct this issue.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You probably have a deep stitch that still has some bacteria but is not dissolving. Unless it is completely removed, this may reoccur.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

This wound is likely from a suture that didn't dissolve.  Your surgeon can remove the suture at this point.  After some routine minor care this should heal up permanently.

Mark Eberbach, MD · Answer

To the point.

This is most likely a suture granuloma.
After this much time, you should go back to the operating room and have the area fully explored.

Remove the offending suture and you should be fine.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Failure to heal and normal. Incision usually has some explanation. The most common reason to undergo what you describe is a contaminated, deep suture. If the suture is close to the skin, then the cycle may continue until either the suture material has absorbed or has been removed.
Without context to how your incision was closed, it’s hard to say anything more. Perhaps the area needs to be explored to look for contaminated, suture material.
I considered having second opinion consultations if you don’t feel like you’re getting the care that you need from your current provider.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

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