Hyperpigmentation after tummy tuck. Has anyone seen this before? (Photo)

Question

I got a tummy tuck on 1/2019 and had a horrible rash after my drains were removed. After my rash stopped being bright red and stopped burning it became really dark and it’s been almost 4 months and shows no sign of leaving. Surgeon said he can’t help me and dermatologists just want to give me steroids but they have not helped. Has anyone seen this before? My belly button is now turning the same color

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello.
Great question. I am sorry for your post op difficulties. It is not unusual for hyperpigmentation to occur, every patient's skin reacts differently. Please consult with your surgeon for resources to help you aid this.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear bebe55555,
based on your photos and description, you might get good results with laser treatment. I suggest you to consult your plastic surgeon or ask for another opinion.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jack Peterson, MD · Answer

This is likely hypertrophic post inflammatory hyperpigmentation following an allergic reaction to something that was on your skin (possibly topical triple antibiotic ointment) It should subside with enough time but you could start with a topical bleaching agent ( I like LYTERA 2.0 from Skinmedica)  and perhaps some IPL treatments.  ( if you try IPL make sure your provider is comfortable with treating patients with higher Fitzpatrick level skin)

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears as PIH (post inflammatory hyper pigmentation), there are specialized external lasers that treat this issue quite well. Find a dermatologist whom offers this laser therapy.

Hyperpigmentation after tummy tuck. Has anyone seen this before? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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