Tummy Tuck incision split with drainage and white tissue (photo)

Question

I am 19 days Post po. after my last drain was pulled on day 14 @ less than 30cc, I went back two days later with incision draining fluid and tissue whiteish and gooey in those areas. Dr drained 37cc from stomach, said nothing looked infected, however put me on 5 day antibiotic to be safe. I was told to wash area 1-2x per day with antibacterial soap and cover with it. Why is this happening, does it look normal, how long will it take to heal?

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear about the complication you are experiencing. Superficial separation of the incision line is a known complication after tummy tuck surgery. Close follow up with your plastic surgeon will be in your best interests; sometimes removal of a exposed suture and/or removal of any unhealthy tissue will expedite healing. Otherwise, wound care regimens will differ from one plastic surgeon to another. Generally, this will involve application of some type of sterile dressing ( in my practice I use a non-stick dressing covered by a sterile dressing). You should have peace of mind that these types of wound healing problems generally go on to heal over the course of the next several weeks, without long-term sequelae.  It may be helpful for you to know that sometimes the area may "look worse, before it looks better". Also important to concentrate on a healthy diet, including a good protein source. Occasionally, in the event of a wider scar, scar revision surgery may be helpful down the line. Best wishes.

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

It looks like you have some fat
necrosis in your incision. Unfortunately, this is a problem that happens from
time to time. Your incision will likely open some more and your surgeon will do
bedside wound care to help keep the wound clean. This will take several weeks
with dressing changes to heal, so be patient and follow your surgeon’s
instructions. If need be, a scar revision can be performed to optimize your
final result. Hang in there, this will eventually heal. Thanks for sharing.

Tummy Tuck incision split with drainage and white tissue (photo)

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Tummy Tuck incision split with drainage and white tissue (photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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