Why is my Skin Changing Color 9 Days After Tummy Tuck and Lipo? Should I Worry? (photo)

Question

I'm 9 days post op from full tummy tuck and tummy lipo. This morning I noticed that from mons to under navel, my skin looks brownish blue. No pain except some tightness, no drainage other than a little out of my drain tube sites (tubes were removed 2 days ago). Been feeling really good, maybe doing too much too soon. Not religiously wearing my binder but will now. No heavy lifting, but I have been bending -it's not painful. Non smoker, healthy eater, etc. Should I worry?

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

It appears that you have a lot of swelling and some mild discoloration.  I do not see any drains(?)  The skin change can be because of swelling and bruising (normal), swelling due to fluid (not normal) and/or decreased circulation to the skin.  In any circumstance you should have a follow up with your plastic surgeon so that a thorough exam can be performed to determine if there any concerns.

	Hope this was helpful.

	Dr. ES

Erez Sternberg, MD · Answer

I do not see anything particularly concerning in this picture. Of course I can't be sure from a picture and no exam. See your PS to know for sure. In the meantime, take it easy, wear your binder at all times, and massage the lower abdomen gently to stimulate blood flow and fluid drainage.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for including a photo. Unfortunately, in this case it does not take the place of direct examination where your surgeon can look for blood or fluid beneath your skin flaps, or assess the capillary refill of your skin (a test for adequacy of circulation). I'm particularly glad to hear you're a non-smoker, as even exposure to second-hand smoke can impair circulation enough to cause dead skin or dead belly button.

	Your early result looks good, but without in-person examination, none of here in this forum can give you the reassurance you wish. You need to see your surgeon for that.

	If one of my patients is concerned, then I'm concerned and would want to see you and determine if everything is OK in person. That way BOTH of us can rest easy and not worry! See your doctor ASAP, not at your next scheduled appointment, and find out if there is a concern, or if all is fine. Best wishes!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Best to follow up with your surgeon ASAP. Over the internet very hard to advise if you are having a skin issue vs fluid collections. Seek immediate appointment. Follow up please

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Skin bruising shows up several days after tummy tuck, and colors change as the bruise dissipates. Your skin looks fairly normal for nine days.
	Best of luck, Peter Johnson, MD.

Why is my Skin Changing Color 9 Days After Tummy Tuck and Lipo? Should I Worry? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Why is my Skin Changing Color 9 Days After Tummy Tuck and Lipo? Should I Worry?

Answer: Why is my Skin Changing Color 9 Days After Tummy Tuck and Lipo? Should I Worry?

Answer: Skin bruising after tummy tuck

Answer: Skin bruising after tummy tuck

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Why is my Skin Changing Color 9 Days After Tummy Tuck and Lipo? Should I Worry? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Why is my Skin Changing Color 9 Days After Tummy Tuck and Lipo? Should I Worry?

Answer: Why is my Skin Changing Color 9 Days After Tummy Tuck and Lipo? Should I Worry?

Answer: Skin bruising after tummy tuck

Answer: Skin bruising after tummy tuck

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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.