Belly button is suddenly inflamed, weeping and crusty, what do I do? (Photo)

Question

I’m 25 female, had a tummy tuck and have had no issues until now. Two weeks ago my belly button was slightly red and weeping a little bit of fluid that looked like the fluid that creates scabs. A week ago my GP had a look and said it looks like inflammation and just to keep it clean and apply an antiseptic cream. I have been doing this and I woke up today to my belly button far more red than it has ever been including immediately post op! My surgeon also says it’s just inflammation. Any advice?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Redcoco101. Thank you for your question regarding the sudden inflammation of your belly button post-tummy tuck.

Based on your description and the measures you've already taken, it seems you are experiencing a persistent inflammatory reaction. This could potentially be a reaction to the type of sutures used during your surgery, either from dissolving or permanent sutures. Initially, continuing with antiseptic care and using oral antibiotics, as per your GP's direction, is appropriate. However, if the redness and weeping have intensified despite these treatments, it's crucial to reassess the situation.

Given the persistence and worsening of your symptoms, I recommend a follow-up consultation with your plastic surgeon. It might be necessary to consider an exploratory procedure to ensure there isn't an underlying issue such as a suture reaction or a small retained foreign body causing this sustained inflammation. Such cases are rare, but they do require professional intervention to resolve effectively.

Please keep monitoring the area closely, and if you notice any further worsening or if symptoms persist beyond the two-week period despite treatment, further surgical evaluation might be necessary.

I hope this advice helps you address the inflammation effectively, and I wish you a swift recovery. Please do not hesitate to reach out for further assistance.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Carl de los Reyes, MD · Answer

If it is getting more painful and red and not improving, it may be an infection. Antibiotic treatment may be helpful. I would recommend further thorough evaluation before any treatment. Hard to make judgement with only pictures.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Redcoco101,
based on your photos, it does look like an inflammation. I suggest you follow your surgeon's instructions. 
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Based on your posted photo a follow up with your surgeon is warranted.  An in person evaluation is needed to determine what may be occurring as it does not appear to be typical inflammation.  Your surgeon is the best one to do this as she/he is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You did not say when your surgery was, but if you are still early, you may be trying to spit out dissolving stitches. Please follow up with your surgeon.

Belly button is suddenly inflamed, weeping and crusty, what do I do? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Belly button concern

Answer: Belly button concern

Answer: Surgery

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Belly button is suddenly inflamed, weeping and crusty, what do I do? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Belly button concern

Answer: Belly button concern

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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