Possible Complications of a Tummy Tuck Procedure

A tummy tuck or Abdominoplasty is a medical procedure used to remove fat and excess skin in the abdominal area. It is used to help people achieve a slimmer and sexier abdomen. However, just like any type of surgical procedure it does have its share of side effects or complications. So before you decide to undergo a tummy tuck procedure, educating yourself about the possible complications can help you get a better idea about the possible health risk that it can bring.

Are you a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks can be performed in both men and women. They should be generally in good health and within an acceptable weight range. A tummy tuck is similar to liposuction but should not be confused with the latter. In fact, a surgeon may perform a tummy tuck in conjunction with liposuction.

A greater percentage of people who undergo liposuction are women. Women with multiple pregnancies for example may find a tummy tuck to be an attractive procedure for restoring their pre-pregnancy body. This is because tummy tucks do not only remove remnants of fat buildup during pregnancy but also remove excess skin from the abdominal area.

When tummy tucks may not be a good idea

Women planning for future pregnancies should put a hold into their tummy tuck plans. Surgeons may tighten your vertical muscles which may cause a problem in future pregnancies. This could lead to a separation of muscles and hernia. People who are currently under a diet or actively participating in an exercise program should wait if these could produce its desired results.

Preparing for a tummy tuck

Smoking can interfere with the healing process. This is why patients are advised to stop smoking two weeks before scheduled surgery. Strengthen your body by eating a healthy diet. Foods will play a major role in not only preparing you for surgery but also in the healing process.

Possible Complications of Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty

Just like any type of surgery, a tummy tuck procedure produces pain and swelling in the operated area. This can be managed through the use of painkillers prescribed by your surgeon. Side effects can also include bruising and numbness which usually goes away in a few days or weeks.

People who are suffering from a medical condition also increase their risk for complications. People with diabetes, cardio vascular conditions and liver disease for example should speak with their surgeon.

• Scarring123
• Infection
• Hemorrhage
• Nerve damage
• Swelling
• Blood clots
• Necrosis
• Wound separation

Tummy tuck patients are at high risk for infection. This is generally true for all invasive procedures such as surgery. This is why surgeons and the medical team take great care in ensuring that the operating room remains sterile. Patients in a cold operating room are at higher risk for infection from patients in room temperature.

Total healing occurs within a few weeks after the operation. But this still depends on the physical conditioning of each patient. Bruises, pain and swelling are usually observed after treatment but this disappears after a few days. Patients who still express considerable discomfort after a month are considered to be slow healers.

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