How a Top Plastic Surgeon Avoids the Dangers of Tummy Tucks!
You have probably been contemplating getting a tummy tuck after all other methods of eliminating abdominal fat have failed. Many patients deal with this frustration, which is why the tummy tuck procedure is one of the most common surgical procedures in the industry!
Like with many surgical operations, it’s best to understand the pros and cons beforehand. Good enough, we broke down the common risks associated with tummy tucks, how to reduce its side effects, and how a top plastic surgeon like Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Phillip Chang from Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center avoids them.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure involving removing excess abdominal fat and skin and restoring weakened or separated muscles to develop a smoother abdominal profile or remove stubborn stretch marks.
What are the Possible Tummy Tuck Side Effects?
The side effects after a tummy tuck can range from minor indications such as swelling and bruising to major signs such as bleeding and infection. That said, our team ensures that your procedure will go as smoothly as possible while taking the necessary precautions to prioritize your safety and wellbeing.
Here are some signs to watch out for after a tummy tuck:
1: Swelling and Bruising
It is common to experience bruising after surgery due to the blood vessels affected by the incision and the overall adjustments made to the abdominal area. You may experience bruising during the first few days after the procedure, eventually fading over the course of a few weeks to a month. Swelling goes alongside bruising as a common side effect. But, contrary to bruising, swelling is an encouragement rather than a matter of concern—it means that your body is healing well! In order to minimize swelling, drainage tubes are to be kept around certain incisions to assist in the filtration of fluid from the body.
2: Scarring
Post-tummy tuck scarring is often very obvious, and the recovery varies from patient to patient. The appearance of scars relies heavily on how precise and skilled the surgeon is. This is usually one of the major concerns of patients before deciding to get a tummy tuck, and rightfully so, as scars take a while to disappear.
3: Bleeding and Contracting an Infection
Although these are rare tummy tuck complications, Dr. Chang prevents the occurrence of bleeding and infection by taking the necessary steps to keep the procedure room sterile. Bleeding is a possible post-op complication if you fail to follow the protocols advised by Dr. Chang.
4: Wound Separation
To avoid the incision pulling apart before the area can fully heal, it is best practice to ensure you follow the necessary precautions after a tummy tuck procedure.
5: Necrosis
Necrosis, also known as tissue death, occurs when there is insufficient blood flow to support the tissue around the surgical area. The tissue, in turn, turns dark in color and appears gangrenous, thus requiring surgical removal. Your lifestyle also plays a huge factor in avoiding necrosis, as this is more common in patients who are smokers and have poor health.
6: Blood Clotting
Blood clots may be found in the legs or make their way to the lungs following a tummy tuck, becoming a serious complication after any major surgery. It is advised to wear compression stockings and walk a little bit every day during recovery.
7: Seroma Formation
Seroma formation is the accumulation of fluid underneath your skin after surgery. This usually happens several weeks after getting a tummy tuck, looking like a big cyst or a swollen lump that is tender upon touching it. Should this happen, the fluid needs to be removed as soon as possible for the healing process to be successful.
How to Reduce the Risk of Complications from a Tummy Tuck
Before getting a tummy tuck, it’s best to be aware of the habits you need to consider practicing or letting go of in order to prevent the risk of complications from a tummy tuck.
1: Avoid Smoking
Smoking decreases blood flow in the skin and can hinder you from effectively healing. Furthermore, smoking increases the chances of necrosis. If you are a smoker and you are thinking of getting a tummy tuck, you may want to consider stopping.
2: Manage Your Weight
Maintaining a stable weight for at least 12 months before a tummy tuck is imperative. Dr. Chang can help identify the required weight before the procedure as significant weight loss post-op can diminish your desired results.
3: Choose a Top Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon for any procedure is a big decision, which is why credentials and certifications must be considered when selecting the right surgeon for you. Dr. Philip Chang is a leading plastic surgeon specializing in surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures for the breast, body, face, and skin. He is board-certified in plastic surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He provides attentive care while leading a team of professionals who will ensure your tummy tuck procedure is up to standard from beginning to end.
4: Share Your Medical History with Dr. Chang
Before getting a tummy tuck, a consultation is scheduled with Dr. Chang to discuss your medical history and what to expect from the procedure. It’s best to be as transparent as possible with Dr. Chang by disclosing your entire medical history. Take note of any previous surgeries and any medications that you are currently taking as well as any allergies. This, in turn, gives Dr. Chang an idea of how to best approach you as a patient.
5: Follow Dr. Chang’s Postoperative Recommendations
Following your surgeon’s instructions and recommendations is key to a successful recovery. A lot of complications can be prevented by following what your doctor has advised you. After getting a tummy tuck, the best thing to do for yourself and your body is to comply with all the post-op care prescribed to you by following these directions. Take note as well of any follow-up consultations and visits to keep tabs on your recovery.
Start Your Tummy Tuck Journey under the Guidance of Dr. Chang!
Ready to undergo your very own tummy tuck procedure? Look no further! Come join us at Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center for a complimentary consultation before moving forward with your treatment. Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Phillip Chang will determine if you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck. Our team will help you navigate the entire process if everything matches up, from beginning to the end! Also, don’t forget to check out our blog for more information on plastic surgery trends!
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