8 months post op and noticed a blister on tummy tuck scar. Advice? (photo)

Thank you for your question regarding what to do about a blister on your tummy tuck scar 8-months after a tummy tuck. It appears that you have had a localized infection. This is common in areas of incision and is especially common in areas that have hair follicles. I believe you have an infection and the soft tissue became either displaced or died. It is also possible that you had an area of fat necrosis where the fat died. Either way, I would suggest conservative care. I would give it at least 4-6 months to heal. If you are still concerned about the area, this can be easily corrected under local anesthesia and the area is directly excised and reapproximated with sutures. Thank you for your question and I hope this helps.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Hello and thank you for your question.
It may be a suture coming to the surface. Have your surgeon take a look at it. Best wishes!

Hello and thank you for your question. It appears as if you have a common minor complication called a suture abscess. As your deeper sutures are dissolved by your body, sometimes a pustule occurs, and may drain on its own and usually does not require oral antibiotics. I would notify your surgeon in case they want to see you in the clinic, however usually these heal well with local wound care at home and close monitoring.

Dear Giving478055,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a 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

Some general advice for dealing with a blister on a tummy tuck scar. It's essential to consult with your surgeon or a healthcare professional for personalized guidance, as they can provide the most accurate advice based on your specific situation. Here are some general steps you can consider:1.) Keep it clean: Gently clean the area around the blister with mild soap and water. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing the blister, as this can cause further irritation.2.) Avoid popping the blister: It's usually best not to pop the blister, as this can increase the risk of infection. The blister acts as a protective barrier for the healing skin underneath.3.) Protect the blister: Cover the blister with a sterile, non-stick dressing or bandage to prevent friction and protect it from further irritation. Ensure that the dressing is not too tight.4.) Keep it dry: Make sure the blister and the surrounding area remain dry. Moisture can contribute to infection, so avoid prolonged exposure to water.5.) Watch for signs of infection: Keep an eye out for any signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or pus drainage. If you suspect an infection, contact your healthcare provider immediately.6.) Follow post-op care instructions: Review the post-operative care instructions provided by your surgeon. They may have specific guidance on caring for your scar during the healing process.7.) Avoid excessive activity: Be cautious with strenuous activities that could put extra strain on the scar area. Follow your surgeon's recommendations for physical activity during the recovery period.8.) Stay hydrated and eat well: Proper nutrition and hydration can support your body's healing process.9.) Consult your surgeon: It's crucial to reach out to your tummy tuck surgeon or a healthcare professional experienced in post-operative care. They can evaluate the blister and provide appropriate treatment recommendations based on your unique situation.Remember that complications or issues can arise during the healing process, and it's always best to consult a healthcare professional for guidance specific to your condition. Ignoring or mishandling a blister on your scar can potentially lead to complications, so seek medical advice promptly.

This appears to be a suture that has come to the surface. It is easily handled in your surgeon's office. The area will be opened and the suture end trimmed (which is virtually painless). This also could be an ingrown hair. After a short visit to your surgeon it will be just a little TLC at home for a few days and it should heal up just fine.

Thanks for using Real Self. But why have you not called, seen, asked your chosen surgeon what to do??? Appears as superficial suture resolved infection with scar spreading. Revision of that area indicated under local anesthesia. Fee $1,000 if using new PS.

8 months after a tummy tuck, that is most likely a stitch that is "coming to a head". Dissolvable stitches usually dissolve and go away. Some, however, will be walled off and your body will bring them to a head, similar to a zit. Sometimes they will simply go away. Sometimes they come to a head and drain. Patients will call me and say, "My wound is opening up and there is pus inside!" And most times, that is the remnants of the dissolvable stitch that is gooey and semi-liquid. There can also be "permanent" stitches inside that can also come to a head. You should check with your plastic surgeon and see what he/she recommend.It may require another visit to your surgeon. I could lead to an infection (unlikely). I could lead a small area of widened scar.

From your photo and timeline I would think of two options that can be confirmed by physical exam.

Hypertrophic scar

abscess from hair growth.

Call your doctor. That is easier than online solutions

Greetings,

Sorry to hear that you have a small blister on your tummy tuck scar 8 months after surgery.

This could be a simple as an infected hair follicle or drainage from an undigested deep suture. I would strongly suggest that you revisit your plastic surgeon for guidance and care. He (she) would be best able to help you with an in-person examination.

Best Regards.