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

Question

I had a tummy tuck 10 days ago. Unfortunately, the wound got a bit infected and it didn’t close completely (about 1/4 inch “hole”, right in the middle of tummy, above the pubic hair). I am asked to use syringe and insert the iodine (100ml) into the hole (under the skin) and to “package” it by 6” gaze soaked in iodine and to push it into that hole by myself twice a day. Is it normal that patient does this herself at home or it should be done by nurse.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

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.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

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.

James N. Romanelli, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

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!

Ahmed Abd EL Gawad, MD, FEBOPRAS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

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.

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

Answers (6)

Answer: Wound packing

Answer: Wound packing

Answer: Tummy Tuck

Answer: Tummy Tuck

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

Answers (6)

Answer: Wound packing

Answer: Wound packing

Answer: Tummy Tuck

Answer: 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.