How risky is the tummy tuck surgery?
Some patients interested in undergoing abdominoplasty are still unaware of the risks and potential complications entailed by this procedure. The tummy tuck is an invasive and complex surgery that addresses different structures of the abdominal wall. When the procedure is combined with liposuction, all of the structures of the abdominal wall are targeted. Liposuction will work on the layer of subcutaneous fat on the abdominal wall and reduce its thickness. The muscles of the abdominal wall will then be sutured if they are suffering from distension, and even the skin tissue will be re-draped over the abdomen and the excess fat and skin removed. The procedure is complex and delicate at the same time, and it is only natural for it to entail certain risks, as is the case with any other surgical procedure.
General anesthesia is often preferred for the tummy tuck surgery as it allows the patient to be asleep and comfortable throughout the operation. When the sagginess of the tummy is severe, the procedure can take up to four or five hours, especially if it is combined with other procedures such as liposuction or fat transfer to the hips. The risks associated with general anesthesia have reduced considerably over the last decade with the progress of modern anesthetic techniques and substances.
There is also a risk of developing an infection or a blood clot after the procedure, as well as blood and fluid accumulation on the surgical site and excessive bleeding. These are all risks associated with any other type of surgery. Wound opening or necrosis of the skin are other complications that could occur after the tummy tuck, but these are common for other types of procedures as well.
When it comes to the tummy tuck, there are no specific set of risks associated with this procedure alone. Achieving an unsatisfactory result can be a risk, but it is the same with any other type of plastic surgery procedure.
The complexity of abdominoplasty makes it a risky procedure, but choosing an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon will reduce these risks to a minimum. However, keep in mind that not all risks can be prevented or avoided, even if a talented surgeon performs the procedure.
The risk of developing a complication during and after the tummy tuck is quite small nowadays. To make sure the risks are furthermore reduced, make sure to follow the instructions of the plastic surgeon to the letter, both in terms of pre-operative preparations and post-operative care. Also, make sure to schedule and attend the follow-up consultations with the plastic surgeon to allow him to monitor and evaluate the recovery process.
