Is this going to heal right after tummy tuck and scar revision? (Photo)

Question

Had a tummy tuck and scar revision,removal of scar from hysterectomy,scar from pyloric stenosis as a baby that was horrible and causing me problems. Ps said 2 weeks ago out will heal from inside out and push the black part out and have apt in 2 weeks. .should I go back sooner?? I change the gauze a few times a day and shower 2 times a day. Black area almost comes off on gauze and it seems to be bleeding more on inside...have you seen one this bad? Do I need another surgery? ?

Deborah Sillins, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to develope skin loss and underlying fatty tissue necrosis with a complex scar revision and tummy tuck. The black tissue and fat necrosis needs to be cleaned up in the office and continue your wet to dry dressing changes. it will heal in but will be many weeks.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thanks for your question. Your surgeon is correct, your scar will heal from the inside out through second intention healing. I suggest waiting the 2 weeks and allowing it to go through the healing process.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you very much for your question and photos.  The good news is that you appear to be healing.  The healing problem you are experiencing is an expected complication of a tummy tuck given the degree of scarring of your abdomen before surgery and of  the inverted T technique. In a few more weeks to months you will be completely healed and things will look a lot better.  Supplementation of your diet with 80-100 grams of protein a day, vitamin C, and zinc will improve your bodies ability to heal itself.  Continue with your dressing changes as recommended by your doctor.  If you have additional concerns contact him/her for a follow up appointment.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hello Pepper. I'm sorry this is happening to you. You have skin and fatty necrosis and appear to be progressing to an open wound that will require lots of wound care to heal from the inside out. Wounds like this are common, especially on patients with previous surgery scars on the abdomen which is the case here with you. Yes, most surgeons have seen this type of wound. If you're smoking, this is a huge risk factor and will slow your healing so you better stop!You need to see your PS as often as you wish. If the wounds are not looking good or you are concerned about the progress, then go an see your surgeon sooner. There's a good chance you could need revision surgery, but this mostly depend on the progress of the wound and the care provided. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Karol A. Gutowski, MD, FACS · Answer

Very sorry this happened to you but it is a risk when there are other scars on the abdomen. This will likely heal in a few weeks and may need a revision after a few months.

Andrew M. Lofman, MD, FACS · Answer

With the Fleur de lis tummy tuck (an extra incision going up and down) there is a higher chance of this type of ischemia (decreased blood supply) to the midpoint. This will need to be treated conservatively. It will likely take a few months. The scar in the end will be a bit wide at that area. A scar revision may help much later in this process.

Is this going to heal right after tummy tuck and scar revision? (Photo)

Answers (6)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

Can post surgical drains come out on their own? (Photo)

Low belly button after tummy tuck (Photo)

Complications to look out for following drain removal post Tummy Tuck?

I don't have a primary doctor so how would I get lab work done for surgery?

What do I need to do to get rid of this type of skin? (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS