How long does it take for signs of wound infection to appear after surgery?

Soon: Most wound infections after surgery are seen within a week of the operation. It is less common, but late wound infections could occur if there is retained wound fluid, seroma, or hematoma. Lastly and rarely, late inflammation or suture site infections can be seen if permanent internal sutures were to get infected.

Variable: An post-operative wound infection can manifest anytime within 24 hours to even weeks later if a foreign body such as un-dissolved suture material remains.