9 weeks post op Tummy Tuck. How long will it take my wound to heal? (photos)

Question

I had a tummy tuck surgery with hernia repair 9 weeks ago and after the surgery I developed skin necrosis.I had 2 open wounds one almost healed but the second one is still deep.How long will it take to heal?Do I need vac therapy or wet to dry dressings enough for healing?

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear about the complication you are experiencing.  These types of incision line healing (wound) problems do occur after tummy tuck surgery and tend  to the self-limited (will go on to heal without specific intervention). Sometimes however the appearance of these areas may get worse, before they get better. Most importantly, continue to follow-up with your plastic surgeon who is in the best position to rule out issues such as infection and/or suture material that may need to be removed.  Don't hesitate to ask questions if you have concerns about the decision-making process and/or recommendations made. Best wishes.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

is difficult due to the many issues involved in wound healing.  But you can be assured that your wound will eventually heal and it will look much better than what you see at this time.  Before your body can heal, all the dead tissue must be gone.  You will then appreciate rapid filling of the wound then the skin growing into the beefy tissue that filled the wound.  When you are at least 6 months out, you can consider scar revisions if the surrounding anatomy allows for this.  Both the VAC and wet dressings could be used.  Most use wet dressings because it cheaper but the wound VAC could be quicker.

Erika Sato, MD, FACS · Answer

Many factors can lead to the development of wound complications after a tummy tuck. These factors can also contribute to how fast your wound will heal. Medical problems such as diabetes, poor nutrition and smoking can slow down the healing process. Good wound care is very important. Your plastic surgeon has probably given you directions on how to take care of the wound. If not, I like to use a moist dressing like xeroform which should be changed daily after you shower. If the wound is deep (I cannot tell form the picture), then packing the wound loosely with a packing gauze will help the deep portion heal while keeping the superficial part of the wound open. The good news is that these wounds tend to be self-limited.

Robert M. Freund, MD · Answer

Both Vac Therapy and wet - to-dry dressings work well. The wet-to-dry dressings are more mobile and do not require you to carry around any external devices. You should do well, but time to healing is different with all patients.I know this is a tough time for you, but it will improve.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

Wound problems after a tummy tuck can be long in resolution.  I would guess you will take 2 more months to heal and then a year after that you will need a revision.  I prefer Xeroform dressings in wounds such as this.  They are easy to deal with and change and wounds love Xeroform.  You need to start some scar treatment around your belly button.  Kelocote silicone paste is a good choice.  BioCorneum is another.  You will get there.  This can happen but it will heal.  My Best,  Dr C

9 weeks post op Tummy Tuck. How long will it take my wound to heal? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Wet to dry dressings

Answer: Wet to dry dressings

Answer: Wound problems after tummy tuck

Answer: Wound problems after tummy tuck

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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9 weeks post op Tummy Tuck. How long will it take my wound to heal? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Wet to dry dressings

Answer: Wet to dry dressings

Answer: Wound problems after tummy tuck

Answer: Wound problems after tummy tuck

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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.