How long will it take for the cleft of my buttocks wound to close? (Photos)

Question

I developed a opening in the cleft at week 2 it seems to be getting larger. My surgeon like others says to keep the area dry with sterile gauze. How long will something like this take to heal? I'm eating a high protein diet, multivitamins, and vitamin c daily.

John LoMonaco, MD, FACS · Answer

This spot can be slower to heal because its naturally more moist there, and also tends to rub.  Be sure and keep your surgeon updated on any changes, redness, fever, or drainage.  Various dressings can be used, but the goal is to keep it clean, dry, and free of infection. Your surgeon may also recommend avoidance of certain activities or positions that could put more stress or pulling on the area.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding how long it will take for the wound breakdown (dehiscence) in the cleft of your buttocks to close. I appreciate your history and the picture you provided.

Every patient heals differently, and there is no exact timeline for wound closure. However, wounds like this typically take about two to three weeks to heal, depending on factors like nutrition, wound care, and overall health. Some may take longer, especially in areas of high tension and moisture, like the buttock cleft.

To maximize wound healing, I recommend increasing your protein intake to at least 100 grams per day. Additionally, taking a daily multivitamin, extra vitamin C, zinc, and magnesium can help support tissue regeneration. Probiotics and glutamine may also be beneficial for recovery. If available, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is another effective option for accelerating wound healing.

Every plastic surgeon has their preferred method of wound management. Some surgeons recommend keeping the area dry with sterile gauze, while others prefer a wet-to-dry dressing technique, which helps remove dead tissue and promote healing. If your wound is not improving, you may want to discuss switching from dry dressings to wet-to-dry dressings, or vice versa, depending on what you have been using.

Regardless of the treatment method, it is crucial to follow your plastic surgeon’s recommendations for wound care. Plastic surgeons are extensively trained in wound management, and many even lead wound care clinics. If you have concerns about the healing process, I suggest sticking with your surgeon's advice and following up regularly to monitor progress.

Good luck, and I hope this helps answer your question regarding how long it will take for your buttock cleft wound to close. If you have any further concerns about lower body lifts, circumferential body lifts, belt lipectomy, or other related procedures, I encourage you to consult an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with significant expertise in body contouring.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Yily De Los Santos, MD · Answer

It is very important that you follow your Doctor´s instructions, and keep him/her informed on any change you may see. Usually patients start seeing their final results after 3 or 4 months.

How long will it take for the cleft of my buttocks wound to close? (Photos)

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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

How long will it take for the cleft of my buttocks wound to close? (Photos)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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