8 weeks post op TT. I'm on vacation - what to make of this? (photo)

Question

8wks post op tummy tuck, and not sure what to make of this or what to do about it. It is a little sore

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Generally, most patients can travel within 2 to 4 weeks after Tummy Tuck surgery. However, car or airplane travel should be avoided to prevent the risk of blood clots in the legs. I wish you all the best.

Randy Proffitt, MD · Answer

It looks like some absorbable suture under the skin has festered and the skin opened up. We call this a stitch abscess.  The absorbable sutures don't start absorbing until about 6-8 weeks and sometimes they "spit".  It is self limited. Just wash daily with soap and water and keep antibiotic ointment and a sterile dry guaze over it until you can see your plastic surgeon when you get home.

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

It may be a suture may be working its way out. Contact your plastic surgeon and send them the picture.

Peter Fisher, MD (retired) · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  That looks like a stitch abscess.  They are extremely common following tummy tucks.  It is the deep dissolving or permanent stitch coming to the surface. If and when it breaks through, clean the area with soap and water and apply a small amount of antibiotic ointment and band aid daily. No need to worry. Enjoy your vacation.Peter Fisher M.D

8 weeks post op TT. I'm on vacation - what to make of this? (photo)

Answers (4)

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