Is immediate bruising normal or could it be indicative of possible necrosis? (Photos)

Question

I had full TT in Dec '17. Had abdominal fullness above incision that was revised today, under local, in office. Fat & skin removed from under the area outlined in the photo and small area of previous incision opened and reclosed. Is that immediate bruising normal or anything to worry about? Also, all over abdominal soreness- normal, even though it was only one area? I would ask my surgeon but it's the weekend. Thank you!

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

I would make sure to take only specific advice from your surgeon, but I'm not surprised that there is immediate bruising. It is normal for the type of operation that you had.

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

HI aimee.This really is a question that your PS should answer. It is difficult to determine exactly what is going on from just a photo. I know that I need to take calls over the weekend or I have a designated medical person to do the same. Does your surgeon not have anyone to answer your question? If not, you  may need to call your doc Monday am to ask for an appointment to get an in person exam.Good Luck!Dr. Christine Rodgers

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear aimeeo6,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

about your experiences and concerns... and while valid, I'm wondering why your surgeon wasn't' more available to you as we are always on call to our patients, including weekend and early morning hours.  We all have an obligation to be accessible to our patients as mine are given my cell phone number so that they can call anytime.  You do have some scar issues but in response to your question, bruising alone is not an indicator of necrosis.  More concerning would be progressive darkening and cooling of tissue so its colder than your normal skin temperatures... followed by blistering as that would be a sign of impending necrosis.

John J. Obi, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry.  Some bruising is to be expected whenever there are incisions and especially with the type surgical revision you underwent.  There is no obvious problem visualized in the photos submitted.  Follow up with your surgeon and follow their recommendations regarding garments, activity and wound care.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Yes, I think that degree of bruising is to be expected after this procedure. I would just continue that gentle compression you are doing w/ binder you show in the photo and I would imagine this will turn out well for you. Best wishes.

Erika Sato, MD, FACS · Answer

The bruising in your photo does not look like the "bruising" seen with necrosis. It would be rare to develop necrosis with a scar revision. The risk of necrosis usually comes from damage to blood supply which is seen with aggressive liposuction combined with undermining of the skin. Definitely reach out to your doctor to make sure all is okay.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Based on the photo that you provide I do not see evidence of skin necrosis.  However it is always best to see your surgeon for an examination in person.

Is immediate bruising normal or could it be indicative of possible necrosis? (Photos)

Answers (8)

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