The Benefits of Abdominoplasty and What to Expect From it

Abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck, is an ordinary plastic surgery procedure to tighten the abdominal wall muscles and make the stomach look flatter. In addition, the procedure removes excess fat and skin to create a more contoured abdomen. Typically, the procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery time is between six and nine weeks. This article will explore the benefits of abdominoplasty and what to expect from it.

abdominoplastyMini-abdominoplasty

A Mini-abdominoplasty is an abdominal cosmetic surgery in which the abdominal skin is lifted from the abdomen. The incision is made just below the umbilicus in the midline, and the scar is hidden under the underwear line. The procedure is performed in a private surgical suite that is CPSO accredited, and patients do not require an overnight stay. The procedure has minimal risks and complications, and patients can expect a natural-looking outcome.

After a Mini-abdominoplasty, patients should prepare their recovery area by gathering supplies. Proper hydration and diet are essential for a speedy recovery. After the surgery, patients can return to light activity after two to three days but should refrain from strenuous activities for at least six weeks. The recovery time for both procedures varies based on the patient’s age and health. Generally, patients can return to work within a week after their procedure. Compression garments should be worn for about two weeks following the surgery, with full-time compression garments preferred after six weeks.

Primary tummy tuck incision

A primary tummy tuck incision is used for an abdominoplasty procedure. First, the surgeon will create a small incision in the abdomen, marking the centre of the torso and the position of the repositioned navel. He will then inject a solution of lidocaine and epinephrine, which act as a vasoconstrictor. The primary tummy tuck incision will run from one hipbone to the other, above the pubic mound. A full abdominoplasty will require an additional incision around the navel. In contrast, a mini-tummy tuck will use a smaller primary incision.

After a primary tummy tuck, the surgical dressing covers the incision. A wide elastic compression garment is worn after the surgery to reduce swelling and support the abdominal skin while it heals. After the surgery, the patient will likely require several weeks of recovery. Patients may also have drains placed in the incision site. Depending on the extent of the surgery, the drains will be removed after three to 14 days.

Complications

In a recent study, 33 patients underwent abdominoplasty, and most experienced at least one complication. The most common were infection, seroma, bleeding and significant hematoma, which required transfusion. In addition, several patients experienced significant discomfort and necrosis of the navel. Eight patients required reoperation for complications. In addition, a significant number of patients developed chronic back pain.

Surgical complications ranging from bleeding to dehiscence, dog ears, and persistent edema are common. Among the most severe medical complications, perforation of internal organs, thromboembolism, and toxic shock syndrome were also reported. Despite a large number of reported complications, most of these complications are manageable using current standards of care. Nonetheless, it is essential to know about abdominoplasty’s risks and potential complications before undergoing the procedure.

Some patients may experience vomiting, abdominal pain, and a seroma complication. Post-operative compression garments and prophylactic drains reduce the risks associated with these complications. However, abdominoplasty isn’t a weight loss program and cannot prevent future weight gain. So although abdominoplasty should help patients achieve their weight loss goals, it won’t prevent weight gain. And while most of the patients’ scarring will fade over time, the puckering of the scar may persist for several weeks.

Recovery time

Post-op care requires that you stay in the hospital for a few days. If possible, walk, but do not exert yourself too much. It will keep blood clots from forming. You can do light housework after the surgery, but avoid strenuous activity. You can take short walks after the procedure to improve circulation and prevent blood clots. You should also continue to wear compression garments.