Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical process that is popular to restore a flat stomach. This cosmetic surgical procedure removes excess abdominal skin. Often combined with a tummy tuck is liposuction. Liposuction is performed to help with contours to remove fat and create a curvy waist and hips.
Tummy tucks are the fifth most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the US. With any surgery there are risks which a competent Board Certified Plastic Surgeon should review with you before your surgery. In addition as this is an elective cosmetic procedure, your plastic surgeon may advise against the surgery if there a risk factors such as obesity, smoking, diabetes, or history of heart and anesthesia complication.
Here's a quick brief on the top five tummy tuck risks, as well as how to avoid them:
Although not really risk, every tummy tuck should be aware there will be a horizontal (side-to-side) scar located about the pubic mound near where a C-section scar would be place. With a qualified plastic surgeon, the scar should be fairly easy to hide with most types of underwear and bikini bottoms. The scars do take some time to heal, but they fade quickly similar to other scars on your body.
If it looks like your scars are healing in some places, but not in others, this indicates a problem which your plastic surgeon should address.
The before and after pictures of scars will give a clearer idea of the situation. However, the best way to avoid scarring complications is to go for a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. Thoroughly review online recommendations and testimonials to ensure that you're in safe hands.
Despite its popularity, some patients may be disappointed with their tummy tuck results. Perhaps the surgeon promised too much and was unable to deliver. Perhaps their abdomen isn't smooth, or the body contour is uneven or unexpected. Ensure your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is well vetted with a plethora of before and after photos with people similar to your body shape achieving the results you want.
Tummy tucks can also have infections in their wounds. These can be a result of fluid accumulation near the surgical wounds or poor wound healing. Gradually, the scars can get infected and cause irritation or worse medical conditions. It's best to keep a regular follow up with your surgeon after getting abdominoplasty. Typically surgeons will ask for a daily update of the drains as well to indicate if there is any issues. Infections are most commonly treated with antibiotics.
Your tummy tucks can also change the way your skin feels after surgery. It can get difficult to adjust to your new body shape and even stop yours from sitting or standing comfortably. Skin irritation, itching are also some risks after getting tummy tucks. The only way to be sure to avoid something like this is to consult the best surgeons and take proper care of your body.
Some patients also react badly to the anesthesia they're given. If the patient's medical history and allergic records are ignored, any particular anesthesia can be lethal. While you're signing papers for the surgery, make sure the anesthetic dosage isn't harmful to the patient. Moreover, anesthesia should be handled by an anesthesiologist.
Tummy tuck risks do sound scary, but they're avoidable. Booking reliable surgeons, following a standard personalized procedure and post-surgical care can avoid complications in most cases.
