Question:
OK Ger, I know you're out there. I didn't want to hijack anyone else's post, as I have a couple ??s of my own...So, I had my 1st post-op appt. this afternoon and the Dr. said the belly was as bad as it's going to look (his way of saying it's only going to get better from here), he liked how well my hips turned out, said the belly button will take the longest to heal just because of it's placement (in-depth), & drains will remain in until output is under 30cc a day (and I'm OK w/ that).
But, I asked about this area on my incision if it was necrosis and he said,"Yes." but seemed very unconcerned about it. Later went on to say I'm going to have some amazing be/af pics. So, it was a very positive meeting and I'll try not to freak out at this stage, and trust my PS. However, I've taken a so you can see what's happening. Can anyone help put my mind at ease and give me a word of advice? I'm still taking my oral antibiotics for post-surg., trying to keep my up, and doing my deep-breathing exercises (encouraged at the hospital). Should I not be "icing" my belly (I have gel-pak I use over my T-shirt). Any thoughts? - Melanie
Answer:
Melanie
That is a tiny spot. I think it's going to be just fine. Just increase , get lots of rest , take Zinc, VitC for healing. You will have amazing results. Just like your PS said don't freak out. It such a tiny area. You should trust your PS he was upfront about it being necrosis. Most likely it just superficial. You should be so happy. Can not wait to see when you are further along in healing. Feel free to highjack the thread . Everyone who has necrosis learns from the threads. I never iced my belly. So I can not answer that one. The next few days I won't be on as much. But if you or anyone else have questions just PM me. I'll get back to you.I have to pack up my Grandma's apartment. She passed away this week. So I'll be mostly over there instead of the hospital like I have been for the last few weeks.
Answer:
Did the PS recommend the ice on belly? I would think in order to heal you would not want ice on it. I'm not suggesting heat but an area needs a good blood supply to heal so I would think ice would be counter productive.
Just my thoughts.
Good luck with healing.
Answer:
Is that really necrosis? Is it possible that it's just a scab? Would it be necrosis this soon?
I've seen gangrene and necrotic tissue lots of times (not on es but on legs and feet) and it didn't really look like that. That looks like a scab to me. Of course, I could be wrong. Your PS saw it up close but the fact that he seemed unconcerned leads me to believe that it probably isn't worth worrying about. And it's really small. Just keep doing what you're doing.
In my line of work, whenever tissue becomes necrotic there is nothing you can for it topically. It has to do with circulation so antibiotic ointment wouldn't "heal" necrosis.
I would stick with your docs orders.
Keep on healing! You look marvelous!
Stef
Answer:
Thank you for the "reality check"...I've kept up w / your story, Ger, in bits and pieces (what my kids allow ), and realize it's not enough to get worked up about, but definately want to do what's best to keep that blood circulating down there so not to get worse - maybe start massaging my tummy area?...I had been using the frozen gel-pack yest. and today for the swelling (it did help and feel good) but didn't notice the black areas until this afternoon. Course I never thought to ask the Dr. if that was a bad idea because of slowing the blood flow. Guess I'll call his office tomorrow...No matter what, even with as swollen as I am, and have an ugly, bumpy incision (for now), I'm still excited at being flat! I'll keep you updated...Mel
And my condolences to you G. - may Heaven be rejoicing.