Bloody/gooey belly button incision still? Is this normal?

[CJessicaD]

Hi I had laparoscopic surgery 6 days ago and I am amazed how well my incisions have healed! Except for my belly button it is still gooey and bloody. I’ve cleaned and rebandaged it 3 times now and it continues to bleed through the bandages. Is this normal? how long should I leave it before seeing a doctor/nurse?

[luthien]

because it's bleeding it's a good idea to see the nurse or your gp, as it may need looking at and possibly re-stitching or something to help clot it so it stops bleeding.

The gooey is sometimes because it's a difficult place to get air to, it ideally needs to air dry - but get the bleeding sorted first then you can remove your dressing.

[Charliebh12]

Hi ya,

I would ask your GP nurse to look at it, it could be a mild infection. No harm in asking and they can give you some antibiotics if it's not quite right xx

[weekari]

I only had a belly button incision and mine took a good few weeks to heal. I went to the nurse after about a week as I wasn't sure how it was supposed to look and she said it would just take a while due to where it is. She was very happy to have a look though so if you're concerned, I think it's no issue to pop down and see the nurse. It didn't help that I was so squeamish about it and have an issue with belly buttons! 🤢

I'm sure at 6 days is probably normal but don't be afraid to visit the nurse just to put your mind at rest. X

[CJessicaD]

Thanks everyone ❤️ I’ve got an appointment for tomorrow morning!

It is probably nothing but I think because of where it is, every time I bend over or move I can feel it pull on the stitch or maybe it pulls on the scab 😷😷. So gross but thank you again everyone xx

[weekari in reply to CJessicaD]

That's great. I think it is just an awkward place. Gives me the heebie jeebies! 😂

X