Why Is My Skin Yellow After Surgery? Understanding Post-Operative Skin Changes

“Why do I have yellow skin after surgery?” This common concern, known as postoperative jaundice, arises due to changes in bilirubin levels within the body. Bilirubin is a pigment formed during the breakdown of red blood cells and is typically processed and excreted by hepatocytes, the liver’s metabolic workhorses. However, after surgery, there can be an increase in bilirubin formation along with a decrease in the liver’s ability to efficiently clear bilirubin from the bloodstream. This imbalance in bilirubin metabolism can lead to the yellowing of the skin, a condition often referred to as jaundice. Understanding the reasons behind this post-surgery occurrence can help individuals better manage and address this temporary discoloration.

Is it normal for your wound to turn yellow after surgery? When you undergo surgery, your wound undergoes a series of healing stages, encompassing initial bleeding and subsequent scab formation. Consequently, it is considered typical to experience a minimal to moderate discharge during the initial week. This discharge typically appears as a thin, clear, or pale yellow fluid. This natural process is part of your body’s healing mechanism, and it helps protect the wound from infection while fostering the recovery process.