Cosmetic Plastic Surgery > Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
TUMMY TUCK PLASTIC SURGERY
(ABDOMINOPLASTY)
About Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Procedure
Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is the surgical term used for flattening the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin (sometimes just the skin) and tightening the muscles of the abdomin wall. The time required for an abdominalplasty depends on the amount of body fat and skin that needs to be removed, but generally lasts between 2 to 5 hours. During the operation a general anesthetic or local sedation will be used.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Surgery
Depending on individual circumstances and extent of abdominoplasty surgery, the tummy tuck can be either inpatient or outpatient. You can expect some temporary pain and swelling in the abdominal area. There may also be some numbness of the abdominal skin and even some bruising. Some people who have tummy tucks have experienced some tiredness for several weeks and sometimes months after surgery.
Abdominoplasty Recovery
The overall recovery for most abdominalplasty patients is to return to work after 2 to 4 weeks while performing more strenuous activities at about the 4 to 6 week mark.
The fading and flattening of any scarring after a tummy tuck will usually take 3 months to 2 years. Though the scarring will never completely disappear, you surgeon can recommend certain creams or oinments to use once you are completely healed.
Risks of Abdominoplasty
It is important for a person who undergoes an abdominalplasty to take proper care of the area around the incision used in the operation as well as following any and all directions given by the surgeon.
Infection and bleeding under the skin flap as well as blood
clots are rare occurances, but are possible. Poor blood circulation,
diabetes, or heart, lung or liver disease, can increase the
risks of abdominalplasty surgeries. If you experience a poor
healing process that results in excess scarring or skin loss,
you may need a second operation.
ABDOMINOPLASTY
(TUMMY TUCK)
BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
Patient Pre And Post Operative Images provided by Dr.
William P. Aiello at
Ocean
Plastic Surgery Center
in Los Angeles & Orange County, CA