As a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience, I have witnessed the benefits and risks of various cosmetic procedures. One of the most popular procedures, tummy tuck, is often misunderstood when it comes to its potential complications. While it is true that there is a 3.1% chance of failure, this number can be misleading without proper context. Like any surgery, tummy tuck carries its own set of risks. These include bleeding, blood clots, infections, and complications from general anesthesia.
However, it is important to note that tummy tuck is considered a very safe procedure overall. To ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications, it is crucial to follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions diligently. This includes taking care of yourself after surgery and following any restrictions or guidelines provided by your surgeon. It is understandable to feel anxious when reading about these potential risks. However, it is important to remember that serious complications from a tummy tuck are rare. The higher complication rate compared to other plastic surgery procedures can be attributed to various factors, such as the complexity of the procedure and the individual's overall health. To minimize the risk of complications, it is crucial to choose a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in tummy tucks.
Additionally, following their preparation and recovery instructions can greatly reduce the chances of any issues. The visibility of scars after a tummy tuck will vary depending on the type of procedure you undergo. For example, a traditional tummy tuck will result in a horizontal scar placed below the bikini line. However, an experienced plastic surgeon can skillfully "disguise" the scar, making it virtually undetectable even in a bathing suit. It is important to maintain a stable weight for at least a year before considering a tummy tuck. This will ensure that the results of the procedure are long-lasting and satisfactory. Also known as abdominoplasty, tummy tuck involves surgically removing excess skin and tissue from the abdomen to create a smoother and firmer abdominal profile.
While the overall complication rate for tummy tucks is 3.1%, this number can increase when combined with other procedures. A study published in the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that the complication rate for tummy tucks combined with body contouring procedures was 6.8%. When combined with liposuction, the rate increased to 10.4%. This highlights the importance of choosing a skilled surgeon and following their instructions for a successful outcome. The length and visibility of the scar will vary from person to person and depend on the type of tummy tuck performed. However, with proper care and expertise, the scar can be minimized and easily concealed. During a tummy tuck, sedation is used to keep the patient comfortable and relaxed.
This type of sedation is similar to what is used during a colonoscopy or wisdom tooth extraction. However, it may last longer during a tummy tuck, especially if combined with other procedures such as breast augmentation.
