Is my tummy tuck incision getting infected? 5 weeks post op. (photos)

Question

I had a tummy tuck 5 weeks ago , I’ve been using Cica tape for the past 3 weeks, today I noticed the right side of the incision is a little red and kind of open, should I stop putting the tape? Is it infected ?

Robert P. Schmid, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! It would be a little unusual to get an infection 5 weeks out from surgery, but it certainly could happen. At any rate, it looks a little swollen. I would go ahead & contact your plastic surgeon. Best of luck to you!

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hello,It's best to stop putting tape or cream on an incision if it is red or irritated. However, from your incisions this does not appear infected. To be safe, have your surgeon evaluate the area and he/she can guide you in use of the tape and any next steps he recommends.All the best,Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, it is hard to tell from the picture, but I do see some redness, please call your surgeon's office to discuss, best of luck.

Luis M. Rios Jr., MD · Answer

Signs of infection include swelling, redness, pain and temperature >101.5. If you are having any of these symptoms, then you should see your plastic surgeon.The photos don't look too bad, so it would be best to get examined, sooner than later, to avoid any worsening of your symptoms.Good Luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear bunillo,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Robert D. Wilcox, MD · Answer

Dear Bunillo,
  
It is difficult to tell from the photos.  I would tell you that it would be unusual to get an infection so late after your surgery.  In addition, it is normal to have some redness around the incision as it is healing.  You will need to revisit your plastic surgeon to make the final determination.  I hope this has been helpful.  
Robert D. Wilcox, M.D.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is difficult in the picture to comment about infection. Usually signs of infection are redness, pain, tenderness, drainage. Please talk to your PS for evaluation.

Australia Fragoso-Baez, MD · Answer

Right now your incision could have an infection or a reaction to the tape you are using, you should better call your surgeon to schedule a follow up visit an get checked that area so you can be sure you can have proper healing. Good Luck!

Gary D. Breslow, MD, FACS · Answer

From your photos, the area looks a little red and swollen.  It is possible that that is the beginning of a cellulitis, or skin infection.  I would call your surgeon and have him/her take a look.  You may need to be put on a course of oral antibiotics.

J. Michael Morrissey, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Thank you for the question and photos. Signs of concern for a wound infection include, redness, pain, warmth and drainage from the wound. Any of these signs should prompt a call to your surgeon's office to get checked out. A course of oral antibiotics may be necessary.Best Wishes,  Dr. Morrissey

Is my tummy tuck incision getting infected? 5 weeks post op. (photos)

Answers (10)

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