Spitting sutures along incision line. Will the scar get thinner? What are the yellow spots? (photos)

Question

I'm 5 weeks PO from a tummy tuck. I was spitting 2 stitches along my incision line that my plastic surgeon removed a week ago. The inflammation has caused my scar to look wide in that area. Will this eventually go down and blend in with the rest of my scar? Also, when I zoom in on the photo I see 2 little crusty yellow spots where the stitches were. What is this? Do I need to try and slough it off? Use ointment? Do nothing? Please advise. Thank you.

Joel M. Stewart, Jr., MD · Answer

In general, scars contract as they heal. Yes your scar will probably get smaller, but this is also dependent on the amount of tension across your wound.It looks as though you are healing and I am sure your doctor has suggested how to treat the areas that are slow to heal. Be patient and follow your surgeons advice. 5 weeks is still pretty early after surgery.

Earl E. Ferguson III, MD, FACS · Answer

Small areas like you see along your incision are nothing to be concerned about and will generally contract and fade over the next 3-6 mos.  It is very uncommon that such areas require any surgical correction.  A small amount of ointment on any open areas with a little non-stick gauze cover is generally all you need, but defintiely ask your surgeon for recommendations.

Spitting sutures along incision line. Will the scar get thinner? What are the yellow spots? (photos)

Answers (2)