What Are the Signs of Wound Healing?

Question

i had my TT and i have 2 openings in my incision (holes) i was wondering what are the signs that the wound is healing? does it heal from the inside out? or will the skin just tie itself back together? i noticed some white spots around and a little inside the wound..does that mean its healing? im already on antibiotics. thanks

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s not unusual for patients to have small areas of wound
separation following abdominoplasty surgery.When this occurs wounds heal by a process known as secondary intention. These
wounds form a layer of granulation tissue which covers the base of the
wound.Granulation tissue slowly grows
and decreases the size of the wound.Once this occurs, new skin forms around the margins of the wound and
migrates in an inward direction eventually closing the wound.While this is occurring, the wound is
pulling its edges together to ultimately decrease the size of the scar.Occasionally, patients may need a scar revision once the
wound healing is complete, but this is uncommon.Even when wounds breakdown and patients
undergo a prolonged period of wound healing, they still report high
satisfaction rates following abdominoplasty.

Ricardo A. Meade, MD · Answer

The white spots in your incision may be fibrin and protein clots. If there is an opening you're going to need to pack the hole with a moist sterile gauze and change it a few times a day. A PS should take a look at it, preferably the one that did your TT.

Amy T. Bandy, DO, FACS · Answer

It is hard to say without seeing your photos; I would recommend seeing your operating surgeon for his/her advise.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Without pictures or seeing you in person, it is very difficult to give you any advice or recommendations.  However, basic signs of wound healing are contraction of the tissue (moving together), decreased induration (swelling/reaction), absence of infection (odor/discharge/warmth), improved appearance, etc.  If you have any concerns, you should see your surgeon for evaluation.

	 

	Good Luck.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Tummy tuck will most often heal without delays, though sometimes sutures may work through and cause open areas, or you may have risk factors such as smoking, or managed diabetes. When an open area occurs, you should keep the area clean with daily soap and water cleaning, and cover the areas with a light dressing and a small amount of antibiotic ointment. The open spots will close in side to side. Keep in touch with your surgeon so any infection can be treated promptly.
	Best of luck,
	peterejohnsonmd

What Are the Signs of Wound Healing?

Answers (5)