Open area on butt incision from lower body lift. What should I do?

Question

My coccyx area has been hurting for days now. I was sure I was developing a pressure ulcer or something, even though I get up to walk every 2 hours. Today it was draining so I gave in an lifted the tape a bit an saw this. I went to the doctor but he was in surgery so the nurse looked at it. She said it was just a stitch coming out and put gauze and tape on it and told me not to take it back off. I have an appointment on Monday with the doctor. But I'm scared that my whole backside is gonna open.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about the open area on your buttock incision following a lower body lift. Your submitted pictures are helpful in providing an initial assessment.
It's imperative that you maintain close communication with your plastic surgeon and their medical team. Personalized medical advice from your healthcare providers, who are familiar with your case and surgical history, is crucial in such situations.
From what can be discerned in your pictures, it appears that your body might be reacting to a suture, leading to the opening of the incision. While the area looks red and slightly inflamed, it doesn't necessarily indicate an infection. Each plastic surgeon has their unique approach to treating such complications.
Based on the information provided, it's possible that frequent walking every two hours could be exerting pressure on the incision, contributing to its opening. It's important to follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions closely, including any activity restrictions or modifications.
Please continue to follow up with your plastic surgeon and their team for the appropriate care and treatment. While it's unlikely that the entire incision will open up, close monitoring and professional medical guidance are key to ensuring a smooth and successful healing process.
Good luck, and please don't hesitate to reach out for any further assistance or guidance.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Local wound care will vary from one surgeon to another;  generally, keeping the area clean, the use of topical antibiotics, sterile dressings etc. will likely play a role.  Close follow-up with your plastic surgeon will be key. Best wishes.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears as a wound edge issue that needs attention from your chosen operative surgeon................

Francis (Frank) William Rieger, MD (retired) · Answer

Thanks for the question.  This would appear to be a small opening.  The photo suggests this is very superficial and should heal properly with local wound washing and application of  antibiotic ointment  to the wound surface.  As always, however, contact your local Plastic Surgeon to evaluate this area.good luck to you.  Frank Rieger M.D.  Tampa Plastic Surgeon

Peter Fisher, MD (retired) · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. This a common scenerio following a lower body lift. Follow your Dr's instructions. I would try to stay of the area as much as possible.  I personally have my patients wash the area with soap and water and then use,a small amount of antibiotic ointment. Peter Fisher M.D

Open area on butt incision from lower body lift. What should I do?

Answers (5)

Answer: Small buttocks wound noted

Answer: Small buttocks wound noted

Answer: Dehiscence

Answer: Dehiscence

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Open area on butt incision from lower body lift. What should I do?

Answers (5)

Answer: Small buttocks wound noted

Answer: Small buttocks wound noted

Answer: Dehiscence

Answer: Dehiscence

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Body Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.