The relaxed musculature and loose skin that are common side effects of losing weight are usually not eradicated by exercise and diet. Abdominoplasty, or a "tummy tuck," is a surgical procedure which involves the removal of excess fat and skin from the abdomen. According to Marina Plastic Surgery Associates, ideal candidates for the surgery do not smoke and are close to an ideal weight. As with any surgery, abdominoplasty is not without risks.
Post-Operative Infection
According to Doc Shop, post-operative infections are most commonly a result of patients improperly caring for their wounds. Your doctor will give you precise instructions on care for your wounds and it is crucial to follow them.
Initial symptoms that may indicate an infection include chills, increased perspiration and fever. As the infection progresses, the skin surrounding your incision may begin to create pus and the drainage from your incision may begin to appear greenish. If you are exhibiting any signs of infection, call your doctor as soon as possible. Increased drainage measures and antibiotics are necessary for treatment.
Blood Clots
If you are undergoing surgery that uses general anesthesia for 30 minutes or longer, you are at an increased risk for blood clots. Your body naturally forms blood clots to help control any blood loss. However, if your body forms a blood clot inside a blood vessel it can affect circulation. More seriously, it can break loose and travel to your lungs, heart or brain, where it can have devastating consequences. You are at the highest risk during your first several post-operative days. Because of the risk, some doctors use compression stockings or suggest that you walk around the room within a day or so of your surgery. Taking birth control pills, certain medications, hormone replacement therapy and some cancer treatments all increase the risk of developing a blood clot.
Slow Healing
Everyone heals at an individualized rate. According to Doc Shop, patients normally experience pain, swelling and bruising for approximately four to six weeks. Some patients, however, experience significant discomfort for longer period of time (which is designated at slow healing). Rarely, the wound heals irregularly, creating increased risk of skin loss. Skin that is slow to heal is at increased risk of necrosis (death). This necessitates surgical removal and replacement with skin grafts. The end result is increased scarring and extended periods of discomfort.
Additional Dangers
Additional risks include a reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, aspiration pneumonia, hematoma, death of the belly button, puckering of the skin, medication reactions, seroma (collection of fluid under the skin), rupture of the sutures, visible scarring and swelling.
Minimizing Risks
Working closely with your doctor can help to minimize the risks of having dangerous post-operative complications. Smokers are at the highest risk of experiencing severe complications. Quitting smoking for at least two weeks prior to surgery can minimize the risks. Also, tell your doctor if you feel ill on the day of your surgery. Even a mild cold or sore throat may put you at risk of experiencing post-operative dangers. After your surgery, be sure to follow your doctor's instructions for wound care and avoid heavy lifting.
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