Is it normal to have drainage from spitting stitches? 6 wks post TT. (photos)

Question

I’m 6 weeks post op of a I don’t know the name of the tummy tuck I got it’s an upside down T at 3 weeks I got echar on by the pubic area my Dr told me to massage it with Vaseline to remove it 2 a day till it came off I did. Underneath it I had spitting stitch’s I’ve battling with this for 3 weeks she did tell me it could take 3 months to heal she did take the stitches out! No smell no infection just draining I’ve been putting xerofoam and keeping it covered with a gauze.

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I would continue to follow the advice of your surgeon. Based on the appearance of your wound however, it would heal more quickly if the white material were removed. This can be done in the office. Good luck with the process and make sure to stay in contact with your surgeon, so that they can give you specific recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear  julia0115,this type of wound is not uncommon after tummy tuck. It is usually caused by poor blood flow. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon, follow your surgeon's instructions and keep your wound clean and covered. It can take few weeks or months for wound to fully heal. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

These "T" areas are under tension and can open as yours has.  They take time to heal, but usually do so with good results.  Continue to follow the advice of your surgeon and try to be patient.  Report any changes or concerns to your surgeon.

Bhupesh Vasisht, MD · Answer

yes. IT is not at all unusual for this. Keep the areas clean and dry and make sure you keep regular follow up with your surgeon at all times.  The area where the wound looks like it is breaking down will need more time to heal.  Be patient. Hope this helps.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have a spitting suture after a tummy tuck, keep the area dry with the clean gauze and continue to follow up with your PS.

Is it normal to have drainage from spitting stitches? 6 wks post TT. (photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Drainage?

Answer: Drainage?

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

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Is it normal to have drainage from spitting stitches? 6 wks post TT. (photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Drainage?

Answer: Drainage?

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.