What can I do to speed healing after a Tummy Tuck? (photos)

Question

I had a TT 4weeks ago. Last scab came off after my shower and it’s a small opening at the center of the incision. My surgeon (in mexico) says it looks fine but i’m super nervous. Is there something i can do to fast track healing? What wound care routine would you recommend to your “hypothetical” patient? I have included photos of the opening over the past 3 days, does it look like i’m headed in the right direction?

Arturo Valdez, MD · Answer

Hello paulamichelle92

Thank you for your question.
It looks to be healing well although there are some small openings where the scabs may have fallen off prematurely. 
Just keep the openings clean and dry at all times. Do not apply any creams or ointments. They will eventually close-up on their own although it may take some time.
Be patient, continue to wear your compression garment or binder to help with any swelling. Keep in touch with your PS in Mexico and make sure the openings don't show any signs of infection such as  redness, tenderness and redness with warmth. If so, contact your ps in Mexico.  Hope this helps and wishing you the best!

Eric Wright, MD · Answer

Hi, setting up successful healing following a tummy tuck begins before surgery. It is hard to tell based upon the photos the extent of the delayed healing area. Keep your follow up appointment to allow for an exam with your plastic surgeon. Continue with your wound care, avoid nicotine exposure and follow the instructions that have been given. Best of luck with your recovery.

Eric J. Wright, MD

Eric J. Wright, MD

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear paulamichelle92,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

To speed up the healing process after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), consider these tips:1. Follow your surgeon’s instructions: Adhere to the post-operative care plan provided by your surgeon.2. Rest and avoid strenuous activities: Give your body time to heal by avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for the recommended period.3. Maintain a balanced diet: Proper nutrition is crucial for healing. Eat a diet rich in lean proteins, vitamins, and minerals.4. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body recover.5. Manage pain: Take prescribed pain medications as directed by your surgeon to alleviate discomfort.6. Compression garments: Use compression garments as recommended to reduce swelling and support the healing process.7. Gentle walking: Gradually introduce light physical activity, such as walking, to improve circulation.8. Wound care: Keep the incision area clean and follow your surgeon’s wound care instructions.9. Avoid smoking and alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol can slow down the healing process, so it’s best to abstain.10. Manage stress: Stress can impact healing. Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress.11. Scar care: After the incisions heal, follow your surgeon’s advice on scar care, which may include using silicone gels or sheets.Always consult with your surgeon for guidance on your tummy tuck recovery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is important that you keep in contact with your surgeon to discuss your recovery and concerns.  Be sure to maintain a healthy, balanced diet and avoid all nicotine.  These small wound openings can occur and typically heal well with proper home wound care and by closely following your surgeons instructions.

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
I am sorry that you have experienced a complication of the abdominoplasty procedure. During the procedure, the abdominal skin and soft tissues are separated from the underlying musculature from the ribs to the pubic area. If there is impairment of the blood supply to the abdominal skin or if infection intervenes, the segment of the flap the greatest distance from its blood supply may not survive (above the mid-pubis). The cause of the blood supply impairment can range from effects of smoking, diabetes mellitus, vascular disease, previous surgery in the area (disrupting the normal blood supply), infection, or may totally inapparent.  
At the time your photographs were taken, I do not see significant infection. There is a small amount of residual unhealthy tissue in the wound. I don't expect to see much change over a period of 3 days. Treatment consists of frequent local wound care to promote healing. One looks for the development of granulation tissue, a beefy red vascular tissue, to develop, after which time the wound will begin to shrink. Most wounds of this size will seal over a span of 4-6 weeks. 
Each plastic surgeon has his / her own wound care regimen based upon years of experience. Follow the advice of your surgeon and maintain close followup care. After the wound seals, and after the scars mature and the inflammation subsides, one would then consider revisional surgery if the scars prove to be unsatisfactory (usually 6-12 months). I am often surprised how well these scars heal on their own!
Best wishes...

What can I do to speed healing after a Tummy Tuck? (photos)

Answers (6)

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