Why is fluid leaking out of my belly button?

Question

I'm on day 18 post op, been feeling ok pain are not as bad.  Both drainage came out 4 days ago. But now my belly button is leaking fluid.  It's a clear yellowish/reddish fluid no smell. Whay is this happening?

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Sounds like serous body fluid (this is normal body fluid) is oozing out.  It should stop shortly but in the mean time let your PS know about this.  As your body heals, it will re-establish it's ability to drain the fluid from the surgical area but until then it can collect into a seroma or it drains out (better option).  So while it may be messy, it's better than letting it collect under the skin.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry.  I would see your plastic surgeon ASAP, you may have a seroma, fluid collection, under the skin that is draining through the belly button.  It is important to discuss how to treat and in particularly how to reduce the chance of an infection.

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

The belly button can often take longer to heal because of decreases in circulation to its stalk during surgery. Fatty tissue around the belly button can similarly loose some blood supply, become necrotic, or liquefy, causing drainage. Another reason could be a deeper suture in the area that is inflamed. I would recommend an exam fairly prompty in order to treat the condition before it worsens or gets infected.

Tracy Kayan, MD · Answer

Sometimes fluid leaking from an incision can be an indication of an underlying fluid collection or an area of delayed healing. This often is self-resolving as the area heals from the inside out. You should likely see your surgeon sooner rather than later as this can sometimes indicate a larger problem like a sizeable fluid collection.

Rick Rosen, MD · Answer

I would recommend you see your plastic surgeon for an evaluation. It is usually a minor small collection of fluid which may resolve on its own, but it is better to have it evaluated now.

Why is fluid leaking out of my belly button?

Answers (8)

Answer: Belly Button Leaking Fluid 3 weeks post op

Answer: Belly Button Leaking Fluid 3 weeks post op

Answer: Fluid leaking around belly button

Answer: Fluid leaking around belly button

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

Why is fluid leaking out of my belly button?

Answers (8)

Answer: Belly Button Leaking Fluid 3 weeks post op

Answer: Belly Button Leaking Fluid 3 weeks post op

Answer: Fluid leaking around belly button

Answer: Fluid leaking around belly button

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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