Could I Have Popped a Stitch? (photo)

Question

I'm 6 weeks post op and a fews days ago i noticed his hard ball form under my belly button i'm really concerned that i might have popped a stitch? could it be swelling? this is a follow up question cause i wanted to add photos

Robert F. Centeno, MD, FACS · Answer

Based on your description and photo, it is a distinct possiblity that you have in fact ruptured the suture repair of the muscle plication.  I would recommend scheduling an appointment with your surgeon to be re-examined. A CT scan may help to answer the question definitively.  It can be repaired through your old incision. Best wishes.

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for sharing your concerns. There are several possible causes to your bulge and the only way to tell is by having an examination. Talk to your plastic surgeon about this as soon as you can. Best wishes, Dr. Aldo.

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

Hi - your photos are very helpful. If this bulge appeared where it had been flat before, there are 2 real possibilities to consider at this point: 1) fluid collection or 2) one of the stitches in your rectus diastasis repair has come out or loosened. I would recommend seeing your original plastic surgeon to be examined. A seroma can easily be aspirated, but if your diastasis sutures came loose, this will need to be repaired operatively again.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Best to be examined by your surgeon in a timely manner. Very hard over the internet to diagnose your issue.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

There are a number of possible explanations for the appearance in this photo, and the correct one will not be determined online, but will require an examination by your surgeon. 

	Incomplete list includes:

	
		Breakdown of the muscle repair is a possibility (as in popped a stitch)
	
		Hernia
	
		Seroma or hematoma
	
		Fat necrosis
	
		residual fat not removed. 


	Do make an appointment to see your surgeon for diagnosis and treatment plan. All the best.

Could I Have Popped a Stitch? (photo)

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Could I Have Popped a Stitch? (photo)

Answers (6)

Answer: Could I Have Popped a Stitch?

Answer: Could I Have Popped a Stitch?

Answer: Could I Have Popped a Stitch

Answer: Could I Have Popped a Stitch

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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