When a surgical wound appears red, is it an indication of infection or fat necrosis?

When a surgical wound looks red, it can mean different things. Redness is a common sign of both infection and fat necrosis. Infection usually comes with other symptoms like swelling, heat, pain, or pus. Fat necrosis, on the other hand, might not have these symptoms and is more about the fat tissue under the skin changing or dying, which can also make the area feel firm or lumpy.

Infection:

• Signs: Redness, swelling, warmth, pain, and sometimes pus.
• Cause: Usually from bacteria getting into the wound.

Fat Necrosis:

• Signs: Redness and a firm or lumpy feeling under the skin.
• Cause: Often happens when fat tissue under the skin is damaged.

Both conditions need a healthcare provider to look at them to know for sure. They may use information like how the wound looks and feels, and sometimes tests, to figure out what is going on. If you are worried about a wound, it is important to talk to a doctor for the right diagnosis and care.