Nodules in tummy one year after tummy tuck. Is it scar tissue or the dissolvable sutures?

Question

I’m a female age 70. I had a full tummy tuck one year ago. I now have a couple nodules in my stomach. One is pretty big. Wondering if it’s scar tissue or the dissolvable sutures.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Abdominoplasty scars can be quite complex, ranging from the simple hypertrophic scar to a multiplane inflamed keloid. Pigmentation, discoloration, chronic inflammation, scar visibility can all occur in the short term. We begin each treatment with combination therapy using Yellow broadband BBL, Vbeam, fractional erbium, intralesional IIT, and scar modulation. Start with a combination of Plato's Scar Serum massaged twice daily after one week of epithelialization followed by Luminase/Exfolase. Scar consultation and revision may be recommended.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear lhcdeb,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jon S. Wilensky, MD · Answer

Nodules or lumps in the abdomen one year after a tummy tuck can have various causes, including scar tissue formation, dissolvable sutures, or other factors. Here's a brief overview of potential reasons:
1.	Scar Tissue: It's common for scar tissue to form as part of the natural healing process after surgery, including a tummy tuck. Scar tissue can sometimes feel firm or lumpy and may cause the skin to feel irregular or bumpy. This scar tissue can take time to soften and flatten but typically improves over time.
2.	Dissolvable Sutures: Dissolvable sutures are often used during surgery to close incisions. While these sutures are designed to dissolve over time, sometimes they may not fully dissolve, leading to the formation of small nodules or bumps beneath the skin. These nodules are usually harmless and may resolve on their own over time.
3.	Seroma or Hematoma: Occasionally, fluid collections such as seromas (accumulation of clear fluid) or hematomas (accumulation of blood) can develop beneath the skin after surgery. These fluid collections can sometimes feel like nodules or lumps in the abdomen. If you suspect a seroma or hematoma, it's essential to consult with your plastic surgeon for evaluation and potential treatment.
4.	Infection: In rare cases, an infection may occur after surgery, leading to the formation of nodules or lumps in the abdomen. Infections may be accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, warmth, or drainage from the incision site. If you suspect an infection, it's crucial to seek prompt medical attention.
If you're experiencing nodules or lumps in your abdomen one year after a tummy tuck, it's advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with your plastic surgeon for evaluation. Your plastic surgeon can assess the area, determine the cause of the nodules, and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary. They may also provide reassurance or suggest techniques to help soften scar tissue and improve the appearance of the abdomen.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. 
It could be either or both. Reach out to your surgeon to have this checked. Best wishes!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The nodules you described could be from a number of causes.  The treatment will depend on the nature of the nodules.  The best place to begin is an evaluation by your plastic surgeon.

Nodules in tummy one year after tummy tuck. Is it scar tissue or the dissolvable sutures?

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