How can I tell if it's a seroma vs hematoma vs ruptured sutures 7 months post-op abdominoplasty? (photos)

You will need assistance from your surgeon as well as tests such as an ultrasound to determine what is causing the area of concern. I encourage you to discuss your questions with your surgeon and the reasoning behind the diagnosis. If the sutures have failed the only way to correct the diastasis is surgical revision.

Dear Cdevore1020,
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

Hi and welcome to our forum!From the photograph, the supraumbilical anterior midline mass of moderate size is noted. Its nature cannot be determined by photographs alone. An examination is required to differentiate among entities such as residual scar from previous hematoma, hernia, fascial suture disruption, or chronic seroma.In many instances, the nature will still be obscure. Various imaging techniques are utilized to determine the nature of a supraumbilical mass, including ultrasound and CT scanning. If the fascia is proven intact, a needle aspiration may reveal a chronic seroma. Discuss these possibilities with your plastic surgeon before undergoing open surgery.Best wishes...