Scar stinging. Is this the start of an infection?

Question

Both ends of my scar have become stingy and sore and red... Is this the start of an infection? The ends of the scar are also raised. Nearly 3 weeks post tummy tuck

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Without an assessment in person it is impossible to comment. Please address your concerns with your surgeon. Regards,

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for your question. 
It is difficult to say without an assessment.
I'd recommend voicing your concerns to your Board Certified Plastic
Surgeon. 
All the best.

Seth Eberlin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  3 weeks after surgery is a bit late for a typical infection.  Without pictures it is difficult to tell for sure, but I think there's likely a combination of a couple things going on.  Your scar being raised and red is part of the normal healing process at around 3 weeks.  This will continue for a couple weeks and then slowly soften and decrease in color.And at the ends of your scar, it is possible that some of the dissolvable sutures that were placed under your skin are starting to work their way out.  This isn't a problem but it can definitely cause some discomfort.  Give your surgeon a call and see what he/she thinks- there are a few tricks that can be used to minimize both of these issues.Good luck,Dr. Seth

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Redness and discomfort are normal components of wound healing. However, if you have concerns of a potential infection it's best to show this to your surgeon.

Lee B. Daniel, MD · Answer

Generally speaking, if there is
going to be an infection following a tummy tuck, it will happen sooner than 3
weeks after surgery. Redness is common as part of the wound healing process,
and itching is usually a good indicator of healing. However, if you are having
stinging or any degree of discomfort at your incision site, this is somewhat
concerning. As I said, it’s not highly likely that this is caused by an
infection, but the possibility does exist. To be safe, visit your plastic
surgeon for a follow-up appointment so your incision can be personally
evaluated.

Scar stinging. Is this the start of an infection?

Answers (10)

Answer: Discomfort in a scar after and abdominoplasty is usually not an infection.

Answer: Discomfort in a scar after and abdominoplasty is usually not an infection.

Answer: Infection not likely at 3 weeks post-op.

Answer: Infection not likely at 3 weeks post-op.

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Scar stinging. Is this the start of an infection?

Answers (10)

Answer: Discomfort in a scar after and abdominoplasty is usually not an infection.

Answer: Discomfort in a scar after and abdominoplasty is usually not an infection.

Answer: Infection not likely at 3 weeks post-op.

Answer: Infection not likely at 3 weeks post-op.

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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.