Bleeding from Belly Button 3 Years Post-op

Question

I had a tummytuck 3 years ago. I have started bleeding through the navel and have slight pain,my stomach feels bloated. Since I have moved out of the state I had my surgery in, my new doctor said it is not a hernia. Is this normal?

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

You should see your plastic surgeon (if possible) or another ABPS-certified plastic surgeon who can assess this concern. This likely is caused by a "permanent" suture that has eroded through the inside of the thin umbilical skin, causing the bleeding you notice. Unfortunately, this opening to the outside means that the retained suture material has also come into contact with external bacteria, keeping this area from healing, and perhaps contributing to your other symptoms. These are important additional symptoms, and should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon (who ideally is fully trained in general surgery as well), or perhaps a general surgeon in consultation with your plastic surgery specialist.

	Please do not ignore this hoping it will "go away" on its own! Good luck!

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

It is not normal to have bleeding three years postop.

	You should see a plastic surgeon to assess the problem.  Hopefully it is just a sequestrum, or retained suture, for which an umbilicoplasty would be performed.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Bleeding in the belly button three years after tummy tuck may indicate a contaminated suture which has formed a suture abscess. Unlike a dissolving suture, the permanent suture will hold bacteria and inflammation and will need attention from your doctor.
	Best of luck,
	peterejohnsonmd

Erel Laufer, MD · Answer

Bleeding from the navel 3 years after abdominoplasty is abnormal and most likely is related to the presence of foreign material such as suture.

	Consult with a plastic surgeon.

Michael A. Fiorillo, MD · Answer

In have not come across a case where a patient experienced bleeding 3 years post-operatively. Are you sure it is related to the tummy tuck and not something else. After meeting with the new doctor does he have any conclusions to what may have caused this? I would have to say it is not related to the tummy tuck, but I do not have enough details to make a determination.

Bleeding from Belly Button 3 Years Post-op

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Bleeding from Belly Button 3 Years Post-op

Answers (7)

Answer: Bleeding from Belly Button 3 Years Post-op

Answer: Bleeding from Belly Button 3 Years Post-op

Answer: Bleeding 3 years post surgery....

Answer: Bleeding 3 years post surgery....

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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.