25 days post-op TT with muscle repair. I have a possible semi-open wound, and a tender bump. Is this normal? (photos)

Question

First question Is this semi open wound should be white? Or even open? What do I do to care for it ? Second question I have a bump that is very tender witch they say I need few treatments of ultrasound therapy messages for it to go away. HELP! any advice is greatly appreciated.

Gregory T. Lynam, MD · Answer

I would have evaluation to be sure not a seroma or hematoma vs fat necrosis. I would be careful to not put pressure on the skin so no binder. Weekly visits to the doctor is a good idea. Good Luck!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. I will suggest following up with your surgeon as soon as possible so that he can provide you with follow up instructions. You are still early in your recovery process. Best of luck with your recovery. Congratulations on your tummy tuck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear gumdrop83,
this type of wound is not uncommon after tummy tuck. It is usually caused by poor blood flow and increased tension. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon, follow your surgeon's instructions and keep your wound clean and covered. It can take few weeks or months for wound to fully heal. 
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
The small openings in your incision need to be monitored, to make sure that there is no infection or increase in the opening. You will require some cleaning up and dressing changes. The small "lump" needs to be monitored also, to make sure it is not increasing. A seroma in this condition will need to be aspirated while a haematoma will resolve with ultrasound treatments or spontaneously. Please discuss your concerns with your Plastic Surgeon who can examine you and do the needful. All The Best !

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for your photos. What you are seeing is a wound separation with some non viable tissue. You should see your surgeon who may remove this and start you on some dressing changes. The bump is probably fat necrosis or a resolving hematoma. Not to worry, both of these issues are easily treated.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The small incision opening and tender area need to be evaluated by your surgeon.  These wounds tend to heal well with minor wound care and monitoring.  Your surgeon will direct you how best to address them.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It look like some superficial wound healing issue. usually these heal with local wound care. Bump you are talking may be a fat necrosis which get better with time . I recommend you to see your PS for evaluation and local wound care guidance

Rachel Scott, MD, FACS · Answer

It looks like there are some areas of your abdomen that should be evaluated by your surgeon. Firm areas or "bumps" under the skin are not uncommon after this surgery, and often resolve on their own with time, simple massage, or treatments like ultrasound. But, you may need some additional care for the hip to hip scar line and the belly button. Keep them clean, and schedule an appointment soon with your surgeon or if that's not possible, a Board-certified Plastic surgeon near you. Best wishes and be well!

25 days post-op TT with muscle repair. I have a possible semi-open wound, and a tender bump. Is this normal? (photos)

Answers (8)

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