Is this seroma? Abscess? Spitting suture? Do I need surgery to clean out a possible infected suture? (Photos)

Question

It's been 6 wks since my mm. It's been 2 wks that I've been having leaking from my navel (& looks like a tiny opening upper left corner) . Went to PS last week and took a culture which came back with 3 bacterias including staph, ecoli. Had a u/s that showed a 3mm seroma build-up. I have been given Keflex (4× day) cipro (×2 day) and oxycodene * for pain is 7/10. PS said it's a seroma but can be a suture that is infected and needs to be cleaned out? What other imaging would I have to do to know this?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and I am sorry to hear of your belly button difficulties.  Most likely your symptoms are the result of a stitch abscess that can be treated by your surgeon the next time you are in the office by removal of the suture.  This should allow your healing to move in a positive direction. Hope this helps.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of your issues after surgery.  It sounds like your surgeon is handling the situation well.  I recommend continuing to follow his/her advice and keep all follow up appointments.  It doesn't seem further imaging is necessary at this point.

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

HI,  Your surgeon appears to be doing everything correctly at this point. Sometimes it takes longer than expected to heal from this complication.If your surgeon continues to follow you along closely, he/she will determine the best time for further surgery.Good Luck!Dr. Christien Rodgers

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, your surgeon appears to be aggressively treating your condition.  I am not sure without examining you if anyone else can advise  further imaging. I wish you a speedy recovery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jujubuju,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice. Based on your description, it sounds like your plastic surgeon is doing his best. Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Is this seroma? Abscess? Spitting suture? Do I need surgery to clean out a possible infected suture? (Photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Wound concern

Answer: Wound concern

Answer: TT results

Answer: TT results

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Is this seroma? Abscess? Spitting suture? Do I need surgery to clean out a possible infected suture? (Photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Wound concern

Answer: Wound concern

Answer: TT results

Answer: TT results

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

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