Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) helps flatten the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin, and tightening muscles. The best candidates for abdominoplasty are in good physical condition, with pockets of fat or loose skin that have not responded well to diet and exercise. Abdominoplasty can also be appropriate for slightly obese people whose skin has lost some of its elasticity, and for women with skin and muscles stretched from pregnancy. Anyone planning on losing a significant amount of weight, and women planning on having (more) children, should wait before undergoing abdominoplasty.
The Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Procedure
Abdominoplasty takes approximately 2 to 5 hours to perform; the patient is placed under general anesthesia. Two incisions are made: one from hipbone to hipbone close to the pubic area, and another around the navel. Skin is separated from the abdominal muscles, which are then pulled together and stitched into place for a firmer abdomen and narrower waist. The skin flap is then stretched down over the newly tightened muscles, excess skin is removed, and the navel is reattached where it looks natural. The incisions are then closed, and sterile surgical dressings are applied over the sutured areas.
Recovery After Abdominoplasty
After surgery, a temporary tube may be inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site. An overnight hospital stay may be necessary. Recovery time ranges from 2 weeks to 2 months. Abdominoplasty leaves a scar spanning the lower abdomen from hip to hip, although it is low enough to be concealed by a bikini. Maintaining weight with a balanced diet and regular exercise provides long-lasting results.
Risks of Abdominoplasty
In addition to the usual risks associated with surgery and anesthesia, risks associated with abdominoplasty include the following:
- Asymmetry
- Poor aesthetic result
- Unsightly scarring
- Loose skin
- Numbness in skin sensation
- Need for revisional surgery
Patients who have had previous abdominal surgery may find that their old scars look more raised, have stretched or are more noticeable in general. Undergoing a scar revision may minimize their prominence.
An abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic procedure that helps people achieve the desired appearance of their abdomen. The procedure is performed by a plastic surgeon who surgically removes all excess skin and fat from the abdomen. From there, the surgeon will tighten the abdomen’s connective tissue with sutures, and the skin will be repositioned to achieve a more toned appearance.Â
Although an abdominoplasty can help enhance your appearance, it is not for everyone. There are certain factors that can disqualify you from being an ideal candidate for the procedure.Â
These factors include the following:
- You have underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure or obesity.
- You have an increased risk of surgical complications.
- You currently smoke.Â
- You are planning to have children.
- You have unrealistic expectations regarding the procedure.
In order to qualify for an abdominoplasty, you need to understand the risks, be at a healthy weight, be a nonsmoker, and want to enhance the appearance of your abdomen.Â
Before you can have this procedure performed, you need to think things through thoroughly. You need to consider whether or not the pros outweigh the potential risks.
Below are the risks of getting an abdominoplasty:
- Having a reaction to the anesthesia.
- An accumulation of fluid.
- Contracting an infection.
- Feeling numb in the target area.
- Changes to the sensitivity of your skin.
- Fat necrosis.
- Bleeding.
- Poor healing.Â
- Cardiac complications.
If you feel the risks are worth the reward, then Dr. Earl Ferguson is ready to help. You will be asked to sign consent forms before the procedure can begin. These forms indicate that you fully understand the potential risks and complications.Â
Schedule a Tummy Tuck Consultation
Are you interested in getting an abdominoplasty in San Antonio, TX? Contact us at 210-290-9078 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Eric Ferguson today!
