Why Does Skin Near Surgical Scars Turn Yellow After Open Fracture?

The skin around the wound has turned yellow?

I would like to ask the doctor, after an open fracture surgery on the lower leg, why does the skin near the scar turn yellow? Will it return to its original color?

Xiao Cai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/22

Dr. Zhou Hongzhang reply Plastic Surgery

It will return to its original skin color.

Reply Date: 2020/01/22

More Info

After an open fracture surgery, it is not uncommon for the skin around the surgical scar to exhibit a yellow discoloration. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors related to the healing process and the body's response to injury.

Firstly, the yellowing of the skin can be due to the accumulation of serous fluid, which is a clear or slightly yellowish fluid that can seep from the wound site as part of the healing process. This fluid is composed of proteins, electrolytes, and water, and its presence is generally a normal part of the inflammatory response following surgery. The body produces this fluid to help cushion the area and facilitate healing. Over time, as the wound heals, this fluid will typically be reabsorbed, and the discoloration should diminish.

Another reason for the yellowing could be the presence of bruising. When a bone is fractured, blood vessels can be damaged, leading to bleeding under the skin, which can manifest as bruising. As bruises heal, they often change color, transitioning from red to purple, and eventually to yellow as the body breaks down and reabsorbs the blood. This process can take several weeks, and the yellow color is a normal part of the healing cycle.

Additionally, if the surgical site has been exposed to any antiseptics or topical treatments that contain yellow dyes (such as certain iodine-based solutions), this can also contribute to the yellow appearance of the skin around the scar.

As for whether the skin will return to its original color, the answer is generally yes, but it can depend on several factors, including the individual's skin type, the extent of the injury, and how well the wound heals. In most cases, the discoloration will fade over time, and the skin will return to a more normal appearance. However, some individuals may experience residual pigmentation changes or scarring, particularly if the wound was extensive or if there were complications during the healing process.

To promote optimal healing and minimize discoloration, it is essential to follow proper wound care protocols, including keeping the area clean and moisturized, avoiding sun exposure, and following any specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider. If there are concerns about persistent discoloration or if the area shows signs of infection (such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge), it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and management.

In summary, the yellowing of skin near surgical scars after an open fracture is typically a normal part of the healing process, often related to fluid accumulation or bruising. With time and proper care, the skin is likely to return to its original color, although individual experiences may vary.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Skin Indentation After Tibial Fracture Healing

Two months ago, I underwent surgery for a closed mid-shaft tibial fracture, with a bone plate implanted for fixation. The callus formation has begun, but there is a noticeable indentation in the skin over the fracture site. I read in responses from other physicians that this coul...

Dr. Li Wenhong reply Orthopedics
Hello: The raised area at the fracture site will improve after the bone healing process. However, the depressed area typically does not show significant improvement. For more details, please consult your original treating physician during your follow-up visit. Wishing you good he...

Challenges After Skin Grafting for Open Fractures: Recovery Insights

Hello, Doctor: I suffered an open fracture of the fourth and fifth metatarsals on the dorsum of my right foot due to a car accident, and I underwent debridement and skin grafting because of necrosis of the overlying skin. After a month of hospitalization, I returned home to rest...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
When circulation in the feet worsens, the color of the wounds may change. These wounds can be cleaned with saline solution, but it is important to take precautions to prevent infection. It is generally safe to walk on flat surfaces and use stairs.

Understanding Skin Thinning After Wound Healing: Causes and Solutions

Hello, doctor. I previously sustained a deep cut from a chair and received stitches at the hospital. After the wound healed, the skin in the injured area became thinner and is prone to bleeding with minor friction. I would like to ask the doctor: 1. Why does the skin become thinn...

Dr. Li Zhonghuai reply Surgery
Hello! It seems that at that time, there was a deeper abrasion on the skin, resulting in damage to both the epidermis and dermis. The epidermis needs to regenerate, and the newly formed epidermis is more fragile and thinner. The skin will gradually thicken, but if the underlying ...

Understanding Open Fractures: Healing, Allergies, and Recovery Insights

Hello Doctor, my husband had a car accident on April 29 and sustained a fracture of the left lower leg, specifically the tibia and fibula. The doctor mentioned it was an open fracture, and he underwent surgery to have a self-funded implant placed. The wound is still healing, but ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Treatment is needed to assess potential wound issues such as infection or skin problems. A fracture of the lower leg typically takes about three months to heal, and continued outpatient follow-up is necessary.