Tummy Tuck Complications

Tummy tuck plastic surgery, or abdominiplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that reduces the amount of loose skin and excess fat, as well as tightening them muscles from the abdominal area. This surgical procedure involves making incisions in the lower abdomen above the pubis and around the navel to expose the underlying abdominal muscles. The muscles are pulled together and sewn and the skin is stretched down, with extra skin removed. Often liposuction is performed to eliminate fatty tissue in the area. The result from this procedure is a new and improved abdomen - that is firmer, smoother, and generally more appealing to the eye.

Thousands of abdominoplasties are performed successfully each year. When done by a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon that is trained in body contouring, the results are generally quite positive. Nevertheless, there are always risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure. These risks include:

• A bad reaction to anesthesia
• Unplanned hospital admission
• A collection of blood under the skin (hematoma, or "blood blister")
• Poor healing and excess scarring
• A degree of permanent numbness of the abdomen

In some cases, complications can be severe and may potentially lead to:

• Heavy bleeding
• Infection
• Blood clots, particularly in women taking birth control pills
• Skin tissue death (necrosis), especially in smokers and people with diabetes
• Lung problems
• Death

With the advancement of techniques and technologies in the plastic surgery industry, these risks are deemed increasingly rare. Be sure that you understand the surgical procedure and inquire about steps your surgeon is taking to minimize risk. The following is a list of techniques that many progressive surgeons utilize to reduce complications associated with tummy tuck operations.

• Reducing Seroma (fluid collections) - Seroma is a fluid collection (your own) which collect under the skin after surgery. To prevent seromas, many surgeons place drains under the skin at the time of surgery. However, another very effective maneuver is for your surgeon to place internal stitches between your fascia (gristle) and undersurface of your fat. This will prevent fluid collection before they start, and often makes it possible to remove your drains within 2-3 days of surgery rather than a week or more. Many surgeons choose not to place these sutures because they are not experienced with them. Be certain that your surgeon has experience placing them and that irregularities are not a concern.
  
• Reducing Pain and Nausea - The greatest source of pain and nausea following this operation is related to the rectus muscle, which is tightened during the tummy tuck operation. If your plastic surgeon simply injects long-lasting numbing medicine in the muscle, it will markedly reduce your pain and expedite your recovery. Every surgeon should do this, because it is so simple, yet few take the time.
  
• Reducing scarring - Applying a topical steroid cream for a few days following surgery can significantly reduce scars. If done consistently for about 6 weeks, scars fade faster and become much less noticeable.

So remember, you can reduce your risk of complications by closely following your surgeon's instructions before and after the surgery, especially with regard to when and how you should resume physical activity.

All in all, abdominiplasty surgery is a relatively safe operation - with complications being restricted mainly to discomfort. But complications that are more severe have occurred in the past. That is why it is imperative that you educate yourself about these potential risks to give yourself every preparation to minimize the risks involved with this surgical procedure.