Tummy Tuck
What is a tummy tuck?
Abdominoplasty, or "tummy tuck" as it is commonly known, is a
procedure that minimizes the abdominal area. In abdominoplasty, the surgeon makes a
long incision from one side of the hipbone to the other. Excess fat and skin are
surgically removed from the middle and lower abdomen and the muscles of the abdomen wall
are tightened.
A less complex procedure is called a "mini tummy tuck", or a partial
abdominoplasty. This procedure is ideal for individuals who have fat deposits limited to
the area below the navel.
Possible complications associated with abdominoplasty:
- visible scarring
If the incision area does not heal properly, there is a chance for visible scarring. This
can often be treated by a second operation.
- blood clots and infection
As in any surgery, there is a risk of infection, blood clots, or reaction to the
anesthesia.
Who are candidates for tummy tuck?
The best candidates for
abdominoplasty are men or women who are in good physical condition, but are bothered by
large fat deposits or loose abdominal skin that does not respond to diet or exercise.
People who intend to lose weight and women who
plan future pregnancies should postpone the surgery.
About the procedure:
- Location options
include:
- surgeon's office-based surgical
facility
- outpatient surgery center
- hospital outpatient
- hospital inpatient
- Anesthetic options include:
- local anesthesia
- general anesthesia
- Probable length of procedure: Complete
abdominoplasty usually takes several hours, depending on the extent of work required.
- Short-term side effects of surgery: abdomen
is swollen and painful
- Healing is a slow and gradual
process. It may take weeks or months to feel completely well.
- Scars may appear to get worse during
the first three to six months as they heal. It may take up to a year for scars flatten out
and lighten in color, although they will never completely disappear.
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