The Pros and Cons of an Abdominoplasty

By Andrew W John

Perhaps better known by the name "tummy tuck", an Abdominoplasty is a surgery in which excess fat and skin are excised from the abdomen in order to tighten the abdominal muscles,. This procedure can also greatly reduce the size of the abdomen, both in terms of width and protrusion.

Who opts for an abdominoplasty?

Anyone who has an abdomen which simply sticks out too far and which does not respond to exercise or to other lifestyle factors may consider an abdominoplasty. Loose skin around the abdomen is another reason that some seek out this procedure. Women in particular will elect for an abdominoplasty due to loss of the tightness of the skin of the abdomen due to multiple pregnancies when neither diet nor exercise can remedy the situation.

The Dangers of Abdominoplasty

This procedure when performed by a physician who has the necessary qualifications, is almost invariably a success. All surgery does carry some risk of complications; abdominoplasty is no exception in this regard. These risks should be understood by the patient before undergoing the procedure.

Possible complications include the formation of blood clots and infections. These are very rare and are treatable, but these complications will mean a longer stay in the hospital for the patient after the procedure. Some patients heal more effectively than others - scars can develop. If these scars are very large, a second surgery may be necessary to correct them. Smoking should be avoided as it can increase the risks of complications and worsen their severity should they occur.

Hoe To Plan and Prepare for an Abdominoplasty Procedure

First, the surgeon must evaluate the skin tone of the patient and the size and location of fat deposits in the patient's abdomen. After having looked at these factors, the surgeon will recommend either a partial or full abdominoplasty based on their findings. If fat deposits are to be found only below the navel, then a partial abdominoplasty will likely be their recommendation. If they are more extensive, or simply to result in a better end result for the patient, the surgeon will recommend either a full abdominoplasty or a partial abdominoplasty in tandem with liposuction.

Your surgeon will give you a list of rules for drinking, smoking and diet to follow in the time leading up to the surgery. If you are sick or have an infection, your surgery will be rescheduled. A Complete abdominoplasty will require anywhere form two to five hours to perform, with a partial abdominoplasty taking between one and two.

In a complete abdominopplasty, an incision is made from one hip to the other, directly above the pubic area. A second incision is made just below the navel to make removal of fat deposits easier. In a partial abdominoplasty procedure, a much shorter incision is made, with the second incision often not needed at all. - 18095

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