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.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Three weeks after tummy tuck surgery its unusual to develop a wound infection.  Its possible that some of the dissolvable sutures have worked their way up to the surface and are causing some irritation.  This normally resolves on its own.  Redness and some mild sensations are usually normal at this stage.  If you are concerned its an infection or your pain and redness increases or you develop a fever then you should alert your plastic surgeon.

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Please post some pictures so more specific answers can be provided.  You should visit your doctor right away.  The edges being raised can be normal.  Redness, pain and stinging that's getting worse is a possible sign of an infection and needs to be evaluated.  Best of Luck. Dr. Michael Omidi.An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and provide true medical advice.

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

The good news is that three weeks out is pretty late for and infection.Itching from healing is starting or a suture could be coming to the surface.Check with your doc.It should be OK.

Ravi Somayazula, DO · Answer

Without pictures it is difficult to answer your question. Based on your description a scar that is red and sore can be within normal healing. If there is redness extending beyond the scar, with pain around the skin of the scar, these may be signs of an infection. I strongly recommend being seen by your plastic surgeon to be evaluated. Typically infection after 3 weeks is rare, but possible. Best of luck,Dr. Ravi Somayazula

Todd C. Case, MD · Answer

At three weeks, it is unlikely, but not impossible, that you are developing a wound infection.  It is more likely you are developing wha are called suture granulomas.  The suture material usually "dissolves", but sometimes, the body pushes it out like a pimple.  You get swelling, tenderness, redness at the site. You may get a drop of blood or pus as well.  This is easily taken care of by your surgeon.  You should follow-up with your surgeon to be evaluated and treated as needed.

Scar stinging. Is this the start of an infection?

Answers (10)

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