Are these signs of seroma or infection? Should I be worried? (Photo)

Question

I am 19 days post op since mommy makeover with muscles repaired and liposuction to my flanks, today I noticed that some of my surgical tape had redness around it and some blood with some puss. So I removed the tape and cleaned the area with a gauze & neosporin, and put the surgical tape around it again.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear dollface.8858,it is hard to tell for sure without an examination but based on your photo, it looks like you might have healing problem. I would suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations. Until then keep your wound clean and covered. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concern!
I suggest an evaluation of this area by your plastic surgeon as soon as possible. Pressure, pain, fever and draining wounds should always be reported to your plastic surgeon. 
Good luck. Dr. Aldo

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

From a photograph, you certainly have delayed healing. The fullness of your lower abdomen may represent and infection or seroma, or both. This needs an evaluation by your plastic surgeon who could give you much more information after an examination.

Carolina Restrepo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Redness, swelling, heat, and pain are all signs of infection.  While you only report one or two of these, infections are a big deal and should be addressed immediately when present.  Best is to discuss specifically with the operating surgeon so that he /she can take a look.

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

It is always best to see your own surgeon for issues like this after a tummy tuck. he or she will want to know what is going on and take care of it.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, but without an exam it is impossible to advise, please see your plastic surgeon to be evaluated.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

19 days post op you are still very swollen, and looks like the tape irritated your skin.I would recommend you take it off and do not apply  any ointments. Continue to follow up with your PS so that he or she can evaluate if you have a seroma and address your issue. Best of luck.

Johnny Chung, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I recommend following up with your plastic surgeon. An examination is required to determine if you have a  seroma.  If you have a seroma, it can be simply treated with drainage.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It appears your incision is irritated from the tape.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeon regarding your concerns as he/she may wish to advise certain wound care.  You appear to be swollen still, which is typical at this phase.  It's not possible to tell if a seroma is present from the photos.

Are these signs of seroma or infection? Should I be worried? (Photo)

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