The decision to have any type of plastic surgery is a personal matter, but you must first weigh the goal you aim to achieve with the procedure against the potential risks and complications involved in it. The same holds true when it comes to the tummy tuck, which is a form of plastic surgery that involves elimination of extra, unnecessary skin and tissue from your tummy so that you can get a firm figure.
Some possible complications of the tummy tuck, as found in studies, include blood clotting, blood pooling, infections, inflammation, and problems with the lungs. There are also some less severe potential complications that can be easily managed in a hospital.
The issue of blood clotting is serious in that it can trigger other health complications like blockage of the arteries and veins and cardiac arrest or heart failure. However, the chances of this situation arising are minimal because blood clotting can be overcome if diagnosed and managed properly and timely.
After a tummy tuck procedure, you can expect to experience pain and inflammation at the surgical site for several days to a few weeks. To help you manage the discomfort, your plastic surgeon may prescribe a painkiller and an anti-inflammatory. You will also feel numbness and bruising at the tummy tuck site for a few weeks after the surgery.
Risks are involved in all surgeries, and the tummy tuck is not an exception. Because this procedure is performed on your abdomen, the risks go up. Another serious, but rare, complication is infection of the surgical site. Bleeding and blood clotting may lead to infections if not managed immediately and properly. The infections and blood clots can even travel to other parts of your body, including your lungs, and trigger other health problems.
Complications are more likely if you:
• Have a weak immune system
• Have poor blood circulation
• Suffer from kidney, lung, heart, or liver diseases
• Have a blood clotting issue
• Suffer from diabetes
If you are a smoker, suffer from diabetes, or have poor blood circulation, the surgical site will heal slowly, which can make it more susceptible to infections. If healing is extremely slow, a second surgery may be required.
Other risks and complications of the tummy tuck include:
• Your body’s reaction to anesthesia
• Fluid buildup
• Loss of skin
• Coldness in the skin
• Skin discoloration
• Extended inflammation
• Harsh scarring
• Continual sagginess of the skin
Before you decide to have a tummy tuck, discuss the risks and chances of complications with your surgeon. Make sure to share your complete medical records and history with the surgeon, so he or she can get a better picture of your health and determine your candidacy for the procedure. Prior to the procedure, you’ll be required to sign a consent form that will list the potential risks and complications involved in the procedure.