What is the White Visible Through my Tummy Tuck Incision?

Question

I had a tummy tuck done about 3 weeks ago, and I noticed that there is a little part of the incision that is still open, and it looks white through the inside. What could that white stuff be?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Ana_delacruz, thank you for your question regarding the white material visible through your tummy tuck incision.

It is not uncommon for small parts of the incision to remain open during the early stages of healing after a tummy tuck. The white material you are seeing could be one of several things. Sometimes, internal sutures can be visible through the incision. These sutures are usually dissolvable and will eventually be absorbed by your body. Another possibility is subcutaneous fat. During the healing process, especially if the incision is slightly open, you might be able to see some of the underlying fat tissue. Additionally, the white material could be fibrin, a protein involved in the clotting of blood and the formation of scar tissue. Fibrin can appear white and is part of the normal healing process. Lastly, wound exudate, a mix of fluid, white blood cells, and proteins that help to protect the wound and promote healing, can also appear white.

While some visibility of white material can be normal, it’s essential to monitor the area for signs of infection or complications, such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge that has an odor or changes color. It is crucial to follow up with your plastic surgeon to ensure everything is healing correctly. They can provide a more accurate assessment and recommend any necessary treatment to aid in your recovery. Good luck. I hope I’ve answered your question regarding the white material visible through your tummy tuck incision.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

It sounds that you have some issues from wound healing after tummy tuck.  The white stuff you see is likely what we can fibrinous exudate, or simply some non viable areas of the skin and the protein that the cell excrete.
I would talk to your surgeon and see what he would like to do for it.  I usually place a stitch on either side to prevent the incision from opening up further and treat the area with dressing changes and allow it to heal on its own.
 
Good luck.

John P. Di Saia, MD · Answer

Hello,
If you said you saw a "white thread," I'd say it was one of the sutures maybe. If it is just white tissue, it is likely part of the healing process. Have your surgeon look just to be sure, but I think you are probably fine here.
Best Regards

What is the White Visible Through my Tummy Tuck Incision?

Answers (3)

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.

What is the White Visible Through my Tummy Tuck Incision?

Answers (3)

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.