Popping bubbles underneath skin 7 months after tummy tuck - is this normal?

Question

Hello, I am 7 months post tummy tuck and back liposuction. I went to Dominican Republic for my procedure. The recovery process was slow but finally happy with my results but still healing. Today i was massaging on and around my tummy tuck scar and when pressing down i swear it feels like tiny popping bubbles underneath my skin. I stopped right away. Is this normal or a sign of something else? Please advise Linda Silent eyes

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear viewer, thank you for your question regarding bubbles under your tummy tuck scar seven months after your procedure in the Dominican Republic. These anomalies are not standard. They could represent various issues such as a seroma, abscess, spitting suture, or fluid collection. Please consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon immediately. I recommend contacting your Dominican Republican plastic surgeon for a follow-up, as further examination and diagnostics like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI might be needed. It may even call for surgical intervention or scar revision. Your health is paramount, so don't delay.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. 
It's difficult to answer your question without seeing any photos.
Wound healing can take up to 1 year to be fully completed. 
I would discuss your questions and concerns with your Plastic Surgeon.
I hope this helps.Best, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Helpful415776, thank you for your question. Any kind of abnormality about the process must be analyzed, because there is no way to have a treatment if you are not clear about what is going on. The first step may be to do an ultrasound of the area. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeon for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes!Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Hi Linda. It’s hard to understand exactly what is happening here. If it’s been seven months, I’m sure it’s not a big issue. It could just be fibrosis and deep sutures that feel funny. In any case it is a good idea to contact your doctor. I assume you can still contact him and send him some photos or videos so that he understands the situation….. Maybe even a video call. 
Ps. Massaging the area will probably help.
Best wishes,
Dr, Miguel Mota

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Helpful415776,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I would suggest meeting with your medical doctor or a plastic surgeon if one will see you to be examined.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to tell what may be occurring without an examination.  I encourage you to speak to your surgeon about what you are experiencing.  She/He is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I don’t recommend people travel long distances for elective surgical procedures.
People do not seem to appreciate the importance of having in person consultations, the number of patients who have significant issues after surgery, the complications happen or how many people actually end up needing revisions.
Your surgeon is responsible for your postoperative care of. What you described is not normal.
I suggest you contact your provider and have him or her address your concerns.
Alternatively you could schedule a second opinion consultation with local board-certified plastic surgeons.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Popping bubbles underneath skin 7 months after tummy tuck - is this normal?

Answers (8)

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