What You Need To Know About Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tucks)
By Beverly Fischer on October 18, 2017
Surgical Body
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At Beverly Fischer, MD – The Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery, we believe in empowering women to look, feel, and be their best. Plastic surgery isn’t just cosmetic – it can totally change the way you feel about yourself.
That’s why we think it’s important to keep you informed about our services. In this blog post, we’ll discuss tummy tucks – also known as “abdominoplasty.” Let’s take a look at some of the most commonly-asked questions now.
What Is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is a procedure designed to remove excess belly fat and skin tissue from the stomach, and tighten the abdominal muscles to provide a more flat, visually-appealing appearance.
Excess tissue is common among women who have recently undergone pregnancy, or have lost a lot of weight. Abdominoplasty is most commonly performed in both of these cases.
How Does Abdominoplasty Work?
There are two types of abdominoplasty – full and partial. They both operate on the same principle. Patients who have less excess tissue may be able to opt for a partial abdominoplasty, which is less invasive and takes less time.
Abdominoplasty works by lifting the skin from the abdomen, and tightening the muscle walls and fascia with sutures. Liposuction is often used to help remove excess fat from the skin. The skin is then reattached with sutures, and the procedure is complete.
Typically, the procedure takes around 3-5 hours for a full abdominoplasty, and 1-2 hours for a partial abdominoplasty.
Is Abdominoplasty Safe?
Abdominoplasty is a very common procedure, and it’s very safe. Thought complications may arise during or after surgery, the majority of risks are completely avoidable if patients follow their surgeon’s instructions. There is only a 4% risk of developing a serious complication, such as infection or necrosis of skin tissue.
As with any surgery, complications such as infection are possible. And while tummy tucks are minimally-invasive, patients will usually experience quite a bit of pain and discomfort for several days after the procedure. However, this can be treated with proper prescription pain medication and bed-rest.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From Abdominoplasty?
An abdominoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure, so you will not need to stay in the hospital for an extended period of time. However, the recovery process at home will take some time.
For the first few days after your surgery, you will likely require at-home care from a friend or loved one. It will be difficult to do normal, everyday tasks on your own as you heal from surgery.
You will be given a specific set of instructions by your surgeon, involving the dressing of your incisions, medications that you must take, and your expected follow-up appointment. It’s critical to follow these instructions to minimize the risk of complications.
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Recovery time is typically about 6 weeks, though this varies depending on the patient. After 6 weeks, you can usually resume your normal day-to-day activities, though it will take longer for your incision to heal fully.
You’ll continue seeing your doctor for follow-ups for the next year, to ensure that your abdominoplasty is healing correctly.
Is An Abdominoplasty Procedure Right For Me?
Abdominoplasty is a safe, common plastic surgery procedure – but it’s not right for everyone. However, if you have recently lost a significant amount of weight, or have excess skin and fatty tissue from a pregnancy, an abdominoplasty may be the best way to resolve this issue.
To learn if you should get an abdominoplasty, contact the Beverly Fischer, MD Advanced Center for Plastic Surgery today! We’d be happy to set up a consultation and discuss your plastic surgery options, including abdominoplasty, liposuction and more!
Dr. Beverly A. Fischer is passionate about her role as a leading female plastic and cosmetic surgeon in Baltimore, Maryland and beyond. She believes that plastic surgery makes a positive, life-changing difference, whether you’re renewing your body, face, and skin or embarking on an entire gender transition.
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