Noticed puss coming from my belly button 7 weeks post op. Should I worry? Could I have an infection inside? (photo)

It may take several months for a tummy tuck patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars may stay red, become thick or widen. It can take 12-18 months for the scars to settle.These can be improved with topical treatments such as BioCorneum, Scar Guard, Scar Fade and Mederma. Redness can be improved with laser treatments and the scars can be kept narrow with products such as Embrace.  On occasion, keloids or hypertrophic scars can develop and will need treatment including Kenalog, 5FU and laser.As questions arise with the healing process, regarding swelling, scars, infections or others, it is always best to visit your surgeon to have the area examined and make sure that healing is progressing as it should. There is always the potential for a problem and your own surgeon knows your personal case the best and can give the most experienced advice. Good luck.

Sounds like what you had was a "stitch abscess"...a contained infection around a dissolvable suture. Once the stitch comes out, its likely to resolve on its own. Maybe a little peroxide on a qtip to the area but not other intervention should be needed. And no oral antibiotics...Good luck.

I appreciate your question.



Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan at this time.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.



Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.



Best of luck!



Dr. Schwartz



Board Certified Plastic Surgeon



#RealSelf100Surgeon

At 7 weeks after a tummy tuck, it's unusual to develop a serious infection.If you have pus coming out of your incision, you likely have a small localized infection around a suture. Definitely make an appointment with your plastic surgeon to be evaluated. Thanks for sharing. 

Thanks for the question.  What you are describing is a stitch abscess.  This is just a small area of infection around a retained stitch that was placed at the time of your tummy tuck.  Yes, that was likely a small amount of pus.  No, this is most likely not a big deal at all.  If the stitch came out completely, then the area will close up and heal.  If you still notice the stitch or other stitches, call your surgeon and go in so he or she can take a look and remove any that haven't dissolved.  In the meantime, continue cleansing the area with antibacterial soap and water.  If you want, you can put a small amount of neopsorin on the area and cover it with a bandaid.  Best wishes!

Thank you for your question. It may be a stich abscess. I recommend you to see your PS for evaluation.Does not look like major wound infection in the picture

A small amount of discharge is common reaction to a "spitting suture." Spitting sutures are typically dissolving sutures that your body no longer needs, therefore will "spit" them out. While the suture is still present keeps the area slightly open allowing for drainage to occur. The suture will eventually fall out on it's own allowing the area to heal. You should absolutely contact your surgeon to let him/her know what you are experiencing, it is imperative that you keep them up to date during your healing process, especially when you have a concern. I encourage my patients to pop in the office to ease their concerns. Thanks for the question!

A small amount of pus from around the belly button is usually a stitch abscess.  This can happen from time to time.  If the stitch placed was absorbable (which is likely), then the stitch will partially dissolve and spit just like a splinter.  This will allow the wound to close.  Even non-absorbable sutures can spit in this fashion, but if they are anchored down to the abdominal wall, they will sometimes need to be removed in the office with a little bit of local anesthesia.  I would start with warm soaks to the area 2-3 times daily with a warm towel.  I also like epsom salt baths, which can help soften the area and allow the pus to drain and maintain overall a good healthy wound.  At any rate, make sure your plastic surgeon is aware.