I will be 3 weeks post op tomorrow from a tummy tuck and have a decent size hematoma. Will this reabsorb? (photo)

Question

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Regardless of its composition (serum or blood), the collection may well lead to this area not adhering to the underlying layer without re-operation. This needs to be aspirated, drained, or surgically removed, all of which are minimal compared to what time, money, and surgery you have invested thus far.See your surgeon immediately; the longer you wait, the higher the likelihood of developing a pseudobursa, which has an even higher risk of requiring re-operation to resolve. This is not an emergency as you ahve had this collection for at least a portion of the past 3 weeks, but it IS an urgency. Call your surgeon's office first thing tomorrow and be seen ASAP. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen.

David Shifrin, MD · Answer

It's difficult to tell what happening from your photo. Typically, a true hematoma that requires surgery to clean out presents in the first 24-48 hours after the procedure. You would be very uncomfortable and your abdominal tissues would be super tight. A small blood collection is common and not typically a problem. Considering all of the above, I would reccomend working closely with your surgeon for appropriate postoperative care.Good Luck

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

This is something to be concerned about for sure. This appears to be quite a sizeable hematoma that could result in issues down the road. If the skin is tight and the abdomen is tender, I would suggest having the hematoma evacuated. If the skin is soft and the hematoma is starting to liquify, I would probably try to aspirate the heme fluid or place a seroma-cath. It is possible that the body could just resorb this, but I would discuss the other options with your surgeon.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

If your drains are not working then it cannot decompress.  It needs to be removed and the area drained properly.

Harlan Pollock, MD (retired) · Answer

Great question for your surgeon.......if you are going to the web for info  because that's what your surgeon said.     ........... get a second opinion.

I will be 3 weeks post op tomorrow from a tummy tuck and have a decent size hematoma. Will this reabsorb? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Hematoma removal

Answer: Hematoma removal

Answer: Hematoma

Answer: Hematoma

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I will be 3 weeks post op tomorrow from a tummy tuck and have a decent size hematoma. Will this reabsorb? (photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Hematoma removal

Answer: Hematoma removal

Answer: Hematoma

Answer: Hematoma

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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.