Tummy Tuck

About Tummy Tuck:

Tummy tuck is also known as abdominoplasty. This name is taken from the words abdomen, and "plasty". Taken together, the word describes the operation designed to change the shape or form of the area located between the ribs and pubis, and between the flanks. The pubic ("private") area is frequently rejuvenated at time of abdominoplasty.

Abdominoplasty is a significant and very powerful operation that sculpts the torso. The operation effectively removes excess skin, fat, stretch marks & scars. The procedure also tightens the skin and the "muscle layer" to reshape the torso.

After tummy tuck, people report enhanced self-esteem, and self-confidence. They also report that they are able to wear new and exciting clothing styles, and smaller sizes. Abdominoplasty also effectively corrects problems from skin/fat apron (frequently from old C-section scars) that are non-hygienic, and unattractive.

Who are the best candidates for this procedure?

The best candidates for this procedure are those who have a moderate fat pad, lax abdominal wall structures ("weak abs muscles), and some degree of stretched skin. Patients with a "pooch", fullness in the love handle regions, and "sagging" of the mons region also benefit from this operation. Patients who want to get rid of unattractive scars or stretch marks between the navel and pubic bone may also benefit from tummy tuck.

The best candidates for this procedure are those who are generally in good health, with no major illnesses (diabetes, severe obesity, lung diseases, etc.), and who don't use tobacco products. However, each patient is assessed for appropriateness on an individual basis.

What are the risks?

All surgery carries some uncertainty and risk. Abdominoplasty is a significant procedure and as such, has a moderate risk of complications. Fortunately most patients do not experience complications, and of those who do, the most common ones are the easiest to treat.

As with all surgical procedures, a small risk of bleeding and infection is possible. Wound healing problems, loss of tissue, or slow healing may result in bad scars. The abdominal wall may have permanent numbness.

Serious complications include blood clots (DVT) that may travel to the lungs (PE), pneumonia, and even death. Early ambulation (walking), coughing, and deep breathing along with other precautions will minimize these risks. Other complications are also possible, depending on your health.

How do I prepare for surgery?

It is best to stop smoking before the procedure (about four weeks before and four weeks after surgery). No aspirin or non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory agents, such as Motrin, Advil or Aleve for two weeks before surgery and two weeks after surgery. You should plan to have help for about a week after surgery. Wear a button-up or zip-up top to the surgery center. You will receive additional instructions at time of your final pre-op visit.

Where will the surgery be performed?

This procedure is performed in a hospital or outpatient surgery center.

What kind of anesthesia will be used?

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia under the direction of a board-certified anesthesiologist. You will be asleep during the procedure, and all of your vital functions will be carefully monitored.

What is the process?

Incisions are made in your natural skin creases in the lower abdomen. The incision placement can usually be modified, so that it is hidden beneath undergarments or swimsuit bottoms.

The skin and fat layers are surgically lifted off of the muscle strength layers. The strength layers are then tightened with permanent sutures. The redundant skin & fat of the lower abdomen (along with scars, fat, and stretch marks) is removed, and the wound is closed.

What is it like after surgery?

This is a significant procedure and can be quite painful. This is due to muscle spasm and stiffness. I understand this, and to ensure your postoperative comfort, I prescribe powerful narcotics and muscle relaxants. The pain starts to subside after about a week or so, but some discomfort usually lingers for several weeks. Early ambulation (that is, walk, walk, walk, soon after surgery) really helps loosen up the muscles and reduce pain.

Patients experience decreased stamina for about 3 or four weeks. Because of the repair to the strength/muscle layers, you will be restricted in your physical activities for six weeks or so after surgery.

Although patients notice a great improvement immediately, residual swelling persists for up to a year.

How long before I am back to normal?

Most patients start to feel better after a few days to a week after surgery. Swelling and bruising will usually resolve in about two weeks or so. Some tenderness will remain for about five weeks, and will eventually go away. Most people are able to resume most of their normal activities six weeks after surgery.

Disclaimer:

Although it is expected that your surgery and recovery will go well and you will be happy with your outcome, complications occasionally occur. Although we attempt to anticipate and avoid problems, healing sometimes can be unpredictable. No guarantees or warranties or "contracts" can therefore be made, either expressly or implicitly regarding your results. I have attempted to portray this information honestly, fairly and accurately, however errors may occur, and information may change, so I cannot guarantee that all of the information is accurate. This web site is intended to help you gather facts about this procedure, and can only be considered a supplement to a formal examination. If you find any errors, please bring them to my attention so that I can correct them by e-mailing me at scottkinfw@msn.com.

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