I have a painful red bump 1 year after tummy tuck. Does my tummy tuck look ok or will I need a revision? (Photos)

Question

I had a tummy tuck nearly one year ago and just about two days ago I’ve developed a painful red bump near an incision site under my belly button. What’s happening? Does my tummy tuck look ok or will I need a revision? This area is now very tender and I can’t even wear pants over it. Please help.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

You have a cyst and just need a removal under local a anesthesia at the office. 
Nothing wrong just your body created it most likely as reaction to stitch. 
Be encouraged. 
Dr. Cárdenas

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

This infection is at the top of your vertical scar and may represent a retained epithelial cyst, possibly from a belly button ring? Alternatively, it may be an infected suture. Regardless, it needs to be addressed by your surgeon by incision and drainage, and a tummy tuck revision will not be required.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. It appears that you may have an impending issue with a suture that may not have fully dissolved from your procedure. Best to see your surgeon for an in-person evaluation.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear amommymakeover,
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

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You are probably developing a hypertrophic scar which can be treated with steroids. You might have a small stitch abscess. Please discuss this with your surgeon.  The rest looks fine.

Cagil Meric Erenoglu, MD · Answer

Hi, amommymakeover! Thank you for your question and photos.
The red swelling may be an abscess, so it is best to have it removed. It looks something that can be done under local anesthesia. After drainage, it will recover rapidly.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

You  must contact your Plastic Surgeon ASAP to address this painful, raised, red area.  It is most likely an abscess (infection) which may require drainage and oral antibiotics.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation.  You may have an abscess that needs to be addressed medically.  The rest of your tummy tuck appears to have healed appropriately.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

It looks like you’ve developed a skin infection.
If you haven’t done so already I suggest contacting your plastic surgeon or get medical attention ASAP.
Other than the area of redness/tenderness (infection) everything looks fine.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

I have a painful red bump 1 year after tummy tuck. Does my tummy tuck look ok or will I need a revision? (Photos)

Answers (9)

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