Should I restitch this large open wound? (Photo)

Question

I had a lower body lift on 11/16. One small hole has drained continuously for six weeks. Last week it opened large and stitches came out so the PS stitched it. Within 48 hrs I had staph. We did a culture and I’m doing shots in the muscle every day. I’m leaving Wednesday to USA/home. The doctors wants to restitch in surgery Center on Monday. With so much drainage won’t the stitches pool the drainage and cause another infection. There’s barely any skin to close. We have some language barriers.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the open wound following your lower body lift. I’m sorry to hear about the complications you’ve experienced, especially with the staph infection and drainage. Based on your description and the details provided, most plastic surgeons would recommend not restitching the wound at this time, for several important reasons.

First, given the tension in the wound, it’s likely that trying to close it with sutures will result in further complications, as there’s already minimal skin available for closure. Suturing it could cause the wound to reopen due to the pressure. Second, the continuous drainage from the wound needs to be addressed. Closing the wound while it’s still draining would likely trap fluid inside, which could cause another infection or result in the wound reopening. Third, with a confirmed staph infection, it’s not advisable to close the wound at this point. Closing it prematurely could create an environment for the infection to worsen.

In most cases, a conservative approach is recommended. This often involves daily or twice-daily dressing changes, possibly with ointments or wet-to-dry dressings. Another option that may be considered is a wound VAC (vacuum-assisted closure) to help manage the drainage and promote healing without requiring surgical closure. Once the infection and fluid drainage are fully resolved, the wound can gradually heal or be addressed with further revision if necessary.

I recommend following up with a board-certified plastic surgeon when you return to the U.S. to ensure that your wound receives proper care and monitoring.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

Nope...  treat this with wound care until a scar is formed.  Wait for the scar to soften then ask for a scar revision.  Restitching is a rookie move.  It will take patience but this is the right way to do it.  Your error was doing your surgery away from where you live.  Unfortunately medical tourism is fraught with stories like your and worse ones.  Next time stay close to home.  Best wishes!!

Should I restitch this large open wound? (Photo)

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Should I restitch this large open wound? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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