Excess skin and subcutaneous tissue is a result of significant weight loss or pregnancy. The muscles of the abdominal wall can slightly part and stretch marks can appear on the skin. These problems can be solved by an abdominoplasty. You can achieve a great result with this treatment, but there are risks.
What Is Important to Avoid Complications and Disappointment after Tummy Tuck
- Thorough preoperative tests
- Knowledge, talent and experience of your plastic surgeon
- Knowledge and experience of your anesthesiologist
- Aseptic practice in the operating room
- Clinic’s equipment
- Your behavior before and after the surgery
How Can You Affect the Result
Do not smoke before abdominoplasty as nicotine reduces the flow of blood to the skin and can cause substantial complications during the healing process. Do not drink alcohol for at least one week prior to surgery as it can interfere with anesthesia and affect blood clotting.
You can take a high-quality multivitamin one time each day to help prepare your body for surgery. You will be healthier and your healing process will be faster.
You have to avoid all medications mentioned in my pre op advice.
Before Abdominoplasty
A plastic surgeon together with an anesthesiologist and general practitioner must evaluate the state of the abdominal wall and overall health of the client. Based on this examination, the doctor will recommend the optimal solution. The client must be informed about the surgery, post-operative regimen and potential risks in detail.
The surgery is scheduled for mornings and clients must arrive with an empty stomach.
During Abdominoplasty
Tummy tuck itself takes about 2 hours. The surgeon removes the excess skin and subcutaneous tissue from the abdominal crease upwards. It is also possible to correct parted abdominal muscles by sewing them together, strengthening the abdominal wall. Liposuction of the hips is often performed at the same time. Wounds are closed with a special subcutaneous absorbable suture.
During the procedure and one or two days afterwards, antibiotics are administered to prevent infection. Drains are also introduced to lead excess fluid away from the body.
After Abdominoplasty
After the surgery, clients are usually hospitalized at the clinic for 2 days. The abdominal wall must be compressed with a compression trousers for 5 weeks.
The minimum period of sick leave is 2-4 weeks, depending on the scope of the treatment. Clients should refrain from sports activities for 2 months. Scars from the surgery will be red and stiff to the touch for the first few months, but will gradually fade and soften.