Small opening and infection of the tummy tuck wound - should “wound packaging” be done by patient?

Hello. Great question. Sorry for your post op difficulties. Post op instructions should not be complicated for the patient to do on his or her own. The surgeon cannot be everyday with the patient. Keep following your surgeon's post op instructions. Good luck with your recovery.

Sorry to hear about your healing problem.  Most patients can learn to manage this sort of procedure.  Discuss this again with your PS or ask that a nurse come once or twice to supervise you, in order to give you confidence, and to assure that it is being done properly.  Best of luck Dr. Romanelli

Wound care can be done at home by the patient or the patient's caregiver as long as three important criteria are met. The first is that the patient/caregiver has been taught how to properly care for the wound by a medical professional. Second the patient/caregiver is able to perform the wound care correctly while observed by the medical professional. And third that the patient/caregiver feels comfortable in caring for the wound. If these criteria are not met then other options need to be discussed. In any case it is important that regular follow up be done by your surgeon to check for progress and rule out concerns.

Basic wound care can be performed by the patient, but please use sterile technique!!  Nursing care for this would not be covered by insurance. If your plastic surgeon is nearby, you may be able to alternate your wound packing with visits to the office. Good luck!

Hi
Thank you for sending your question and sorry to know that you're struggling with your wound.
Wound care could be a challenge to non-medical. However, it could be done by yourself if you are feeling comfortable with that. 
The good news is, this sitiutaion won't last for long time.  

Hello,Thank you for sharing the information, it is a pleasure for me to answer your question.
Following the recommendations of your surgeon is very important. The recovery takes around 4 to 6 weeks, you must perform lymphatic drainage massages, for me more, and you can continue your normal activities, perform light exercises, then increase the routine without any problem
the total recovery of the procedure takes from 6 months to a year, it is advisable to wait 6 months between each surgery, to avoid risks, your surgery is very recent, have a lot of patience
I hope this answer will help youMy best wishes for you ...