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

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

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.

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

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.

`This could be the start of a small infection or hypertrophic scarring. That said, keeping the area clean and dry with the daily use of topical antibiotic cream for 4-5 days should help resolve any infection. If that does not do the trick, you may need to start prescriptive steroid cream. I would discuss in person with your surgeon.

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.

As I can see from the photo, the granuloma has turned into a pilonidal sinus. For this reason, it must be excised. Ask your surgeon to perform a preliminary evaluation with Superficial USG. I am sure it will be beneficial. I think you should see your doctor without wasting time.

Do you have an infection of your bellybutton and need to be seen by your surgeon.
Most likely you have contaminated suture material that needs to be removed.
You need proper postoperative care.
You need to follow up with your plastic surgeon.
Did you travel for your procedure?
Mats Hagström , MD