Dehiscence? Or just stitch abscess? Scared! (Photo)

Question

I am 25 days postop. On day 19 (top photo) I noticed a suture abscess. The middle picture was taken yesterday am and the bottom one this afternoon. I was placed on antibiotics yesterday. Will this to keep opening? I am cleaning it well, applying bacitracin, & keeping it covered. I added steristrips to keep it from opening anymore. How long does something like this take to heal? I'm worried about it getting worse. I see my PS Monday am, he was concerned about this spot when I saw him Wed

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

This kind of thing can happen and have no long term effects but it needs to be treated correctly.  First take the steri strips off you are just trading bacteria.  Shower normally.  Make sure you are getting adequate protein and nutrition.  Apply silvadene not bacitracin.  Cover with cause.  Have the surgeon remove any spitting stitches.

Tyler Angelos, MD, FACS · Answer

From your photos there appears to be an area of slow healing or superficial dehiscence. It is tough to tell exactly what caused it to occur but if treated correctly it should go on to heal without problems. Every surgeon has their own unique way of treating a healing wound so I would recommend following your surgeon's advice. Best of luck to you.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I am sorry that this wound has caused you to worry.  It appears that it may have started as a stitch abscess but your most recent pictures shows a superficial separation of your incision line.  I would keep this area moisturized with a thick ointment and covered with gauze until you see your surgeon in the morning.  They can then offer you the best treatment recommendation.  This should heal with little impact to your long-term appearance.  Hope this helps.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears as minor wound edge healing issues. But why post on RS since you are seeing your chosen PS in am?

James Shoukas, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about your postop difficulty. That appears to be a very superficial separation. Having said that you should follow up with your plastic surgeon closely as he or she can best monitor your progress and guide you appropriately.

Dehiscence? Or just stitch abscess? Scared! (Photo)

Answers (5)

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