Is it healing at 19 days post op tummy tuck? (Photos)

Question

Using Santyl on open wound. My PS debrided the opening on po day 14. I have been using Santyl and wet dry dressing. It keeps getting bigger. Please any advice on what to do? Is it healing? Why is it yellow and green?

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

MyTime18.   So sorry you are going through this. It appears from your photographs that you are experiencing wound healing issues after your tummy tuck, which can occur. The wound care medicine Santyl is an excellent enzymatic debriding agent that will clean up your wound without further surgery. Once all the dead tissue is removed by this effective wound care regimen, your wounds will heal uneventfully. It appears that your plastic surgeon is treating you appropriately and well and I would continue followup. Good luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry you are having issues with your incisions after surgery.  I encourage you to continue to closely follow your surgeon's instructions for wound care.  It can be frustrating as these wounds take some time to completely heal but your surgeon should continue to evaluate your progress and make changes as necessary.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Mytime18,this type of wound is not uncommon after tummy tuck. It is usually caused by poor blood flow. The tissue you are mentioning (yellow and green), is not vital and should be removed. 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

Liana M. Lugo, MD · Answer

Hi there! Thank you for your question and for the pictures. This type of wound is not uncommon after tummy tuck. You have wound dehiscence and with proper care it will heal well. Santyl will help with debridement of tissue. However go back to see your PS, he or she could debride some more in the office. It can take weeks for this type of wound to heal, be patient. I hope this helps and best wishes!

John W. Menard, MD · Answer

We would recommend excision of the necrotic tissue with consideration of closure. I would see your surgeon regarding that possibility.  Good luck.

Is it healing at 19 days post op tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Is it healing at 19 days post op tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answer: Is it healing at 19 days post op tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answer: Tummy tuck.

Answer: Tummy tuck.

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Is it healing at 19 days post op tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: Is it healing at 19 days post op tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answer: Is it healing at 19 days post op tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answer: Tummy tuck.

Answer: Tummy tuck.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.