Is this “normal”, as my plastic surgeon puts it? (Photo)

Question

So my tummy tuck was completed May 1st. This is a current photo. Necrotic tissue has been there since week 2 and the wound opened about 3 weeks ago. I made a trip the ER when it did because it smelled and was oozing (which it had been for weeks before). They admitted me and pumped me full of IV antibiotics only to find out I have MRSA and the CT scan showed a collection of fluid on the left side. Every time I saw/see my PS he says I am fine and healing as expected. This can’t be normal!

Robert J. Spies, MD · Answer

You have a serious complication that needs attention by your surgeon.  It seems like you may need another opinion or doctor if your surgeon is not responding to this problem.MRSA needs to be eradicated before you start healing the open wounds.  You need to find a wound care clinic and let them assist your surgeon in your care.Dr Spies

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear James'Girl1075,this type of wound is not uncommon after tummy tuck. It is usually caused by poor blood flow. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon, follow your surgeon's instructions and keep your wound clean and covered. It can take few weeks or months for wound to fully heal. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the complication you are experiencing.  The dark area  is an area of tissue that is experiencing decreased blood flow (necrosis).  It is hard to know whether the process involves superficial and/or deeper tissues.   
 These types of complications can be quite (understandably) distressing to patients;  unfortunately, sometimes the wounds do look worse before they begin to look better. The wounds tend to occur where incision lines come together (where there is the greatest tension and least blood supply).
Close follow up with your plastic surgeon will be very important; sometimes removal of a exposed suture and/or removal of any unhealthy tissue will expedite healing.  There may be different treatment modalities recommended; best to "stick with" your plastic surgeons recommendations. Generally, this will involve application of some type of sterile dressing ( in my practice I use a non-stick dressing covered by a sterile dressing once a wounded is clean).   
You should have peace of mind that these types of wound healing problems generally go on to heal over the course of the next several weeks, often without long-term sequelae. Also important to concentrate on a healthy diet, including good protein source.  Avoid nicotine. Sometimes (depending on the width of the open wound and the appearance of the scar in the longer term), scar revision surgery may be helpful down the line. Best wishes.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

but its never considered normal in my practice.  I'm sorry but you just did not choose a very compassionate and empathetic surgeon to do your procedure as most surgeons would be seeing you regularly to debride your wound and provide you reassurances that you will heal someday.

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and photo's.   I am sorry to hear that you are going thru this, is your PS going to debride the necrotic tissue?   You may want to get a second opinion and make sure the PS is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery.   That wound will not heal until the necrotic tissue is removed.

Is this “normal”, as my plastic surgeon puts it? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Wound complications do occur

Answer: Wound complications do occur

Answer: Is this normal?

Answer: Is this normal?

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Is this “normal”, as my plastic surgeon puts it? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Wound complications do occur

Answer: Wound complications do occur

Answer: Is this normal?

Answer: Is this normal?

Browse related questions

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.