How normal or not normal is yellow slime-like pus in tummy tuck incisions? (photo)

Question

I have a bunch of pus in my tummy tuck scar and I am very worried. My doctor told me it was nothing to worry about and recommended screams to put on it but I just have a bad feeling

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

Hello!After tummy tuck, problematic wounds can occur. This is is due to high tension closure, and loss of skin viability. The dark tissue is likely dead skin, and the yellow/white material is fibrinous slough. This can be remedied by trimming the dead material away, and take care of the wound with soap/water, and petroleum jelly. The wound will heal, but may take a couple months. If the scar is unacceptable, it would be very easy to fix once the healing is complete. Go and see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, and you will be just fine. Best Wishes!Matthew C Camp MD

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear FuturePlazasDoll4.17,this type of wound is not uncommon after tummy tuck. It is usually caused by poor blood flow. 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

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs and I am sorry to see your wound healing difficulties.  You did not mention timing since surgery but it looks as if you have already suffered a superficial wound dehiscence with some necrotic tissue.  This is the reason for the yellow slime-like tissue.  I would advocate returning to your surgeon ASAP to discuss local wound care to help minimize the chances of a worsening issue taking place.   Best wishes.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your pictures and questions. I would certainly not call this "normal." You have evidence of skin necrosis (death) and wound healing problems. This is likely to get worse before it gets better and you might even require debridement (cleaning) of the wounds surgically. I would recommend you go see your board certified plastic surgeon as soon as possible. If you do not have one, find one.Good luck!Dallas R. Buchanan, MD, FACSOwner & Board-Certified Plastic SurgeonVIVIFY plastic surgery

Robert Brueck, MD · Answer

This is a small separation and the yellow is some serum and some necrotic edges which in time will heal and donw the road may require a revision.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears as large incision edge dehiscence is about to occur. Best t see your operative surgeon for detailed care instructions. Might consider debridement of any necrotic tissue with PRP/PRF injections to accelerate healing. Was your TT done out of country? Appears from your previous postings it was?? One option is to fly back for care. Or call multiple PSs in Miami/Dade to pre pay for care.

Laura A. Sudarsky, MD (retired) · Answer

yellow drainage after a tummy tuck can be due to tension on the suture line, fat  necrosis, or infection. You should discuss your concerns with your surgeon, and follow the instructions given to you. If You trusted this plastic surgeon to do your surgery,  you should trust this plastic surgeon for your follow up.

J. Michael Morrissey, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Thank you for you question and photos. I am guessing it is 10-14 days since your surgery. This wound separation is a matter of blood flow. The center of the tummy tuck flap is most prone to this kind of issue in a tummy tuck with extensive undermining of the skin. This is unfortunate, but not a disaster. This will require some TLC (tender loving care) as far as wound care and dressing changes in order for this to heal. Some wound recommend a wound care physician, but I do not feel that will be necessary. With your doctors care and attention, the wound should heal well over the next several weeks. Whether a revision is necessary will have to wait and see, but that should wait for 4- 6 months at least. Good luck to you

How normal or not normal is yellow slime-like pus in tummy tuck incisions? (photo)

Answers (8)

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