Post tummy tuck week 14, wound not healing?

Question

I am 14 weeks post op from a tummy tuck. Everything was going well until week 6 when the centre of my wound popped open. I had an infection for two weeks which has cleared but Wound has only partially healed and still have a hole.why is it not healing. I've been told that it will take time. i also have pain and uncomfortable pressure feeling oneside of my wound late afternoon.,the only way of releasing this pressure is to sit with legs elevated...is this normal and how long will it continue..

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.
  
I would recommend that you discuss this question with your surgeon as every surgeon has their own respective post op protocol for his/her patients.  Your surgeon is your best resource as he/she is most familiar with your medical history and how you are healing at this time.
  
The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.
  
Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.
  
Best of luck!
  
Dr. Schwartz
  
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
  
#RealSelf100Surgeon

Gregory T. Lynam, MD · Answer

If you have a seroma or pocket of fluid under the skin it will find a way out . It sounds like this is what happened to you. You may need to have a  procedure to remove excess fluid. An ultrasound can tell if fluid is present. You need to see your doctor for sure! Good Luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear laurenamy,it is hard to tell without an examination or at least a photo. But generally speaking, type of wound you are describing is not uncommon after tummy tuck. It is usually caused by poor blood flow. I would suggest you to 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, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Israel Manon, MD · Answer

Hello
I recommend to discuss with your plastic surgeon this concern you have. It is important that your doctor knows everything is happening to you. I suggest you to arrange a visit to be evaluated again and know what any other issue you may have and be treated as needed. Good luck.
Regards
Dr. Israel Mañon
Certified Plastic Surgeon

Amy S. Bekanich, MD · Answer

Hi - 
Unfortunately, having a part of your incision opening at about week 3 can happen to anyone.    This is especially true if you have a predisposing reason - ex/ stretchmarks around the incision.  In  my experience it seems that the wounds poke along for quite awhile and then all of a sudden start to close.  I bet you are about the turn the corner and things start to look up.  It is always good to maximize your health in these situations with a healthy diet and mild exercise.  Your pressure question is more complicated and is very specific to what you are personally experiencing.   Talk to your doctor and make sure nothing is going on that side.  If they determine that you don't have a problem that needs to  be addressed then your pressure is most likely swelling that will slowly decrease over time  and it sounds like you are listening to your body and doing what you need to do - raising your legs and taking it easy.  
Best wishes on your aesthetic journey,
- Dr. Bekanich

Post tummy tuck week 14, wound not healing?

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Post tummy tuck week 14, wound not healing?

Answers (5)

Answer: Post tummy tuck week 14, wound not healing?

Answer: Post tummy tuck week 14, wound not healing?

Answer: Wound not healing - tummy tuck

Answer: Wound not healing - tummy tuck

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