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| brighamandwomens.org |
A tight and flat stomach is certainly everyone's dream. Not surprisingly, many people consider the procedure of tummy tuck to improve the appearance of a loose and fatty stomach. But behind its aesthetic benefits, tummy tuck is still an operating procedure that has a number of risks.
Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure to remove excess layers of fat and skin in the stomach, and repair weak muscles and connective tissue in the area. This action aims to provide a firmer and flatter appearance of the abdominal wall.
Know the Benefits and Risks of Tummy Tuck
Surgery for tummy tuck is usually done with general anesthesia (general anesthesia). In the tummy tuck procedure, a plastic surgeon will make a curved horizontal incision in the lower part of the abdomen. After that, the doctor will erode the layer of fat under the skin and sew the loose connective tissue in the abdominal area.After completion, the lining of the abdominal wall will be repositioned as before, then the excess excess skin will be removed and the incision will be sewn.
Candidates Who Can Undergo Tummy Tuck
The tummy tuck procedure can be considered for people who want improved appearance for the following reasons:There is skin tissue and excess fat in the abdominal area, or loosened lower abdominal wall.
- The stomach sags after undergoing liposuction.
- The stomach sags after drastic weight loss.
- The stomach is sagging or sagging after several pregnancies.
- Keep in mind, tummy tuck surgery is not a shortcut to getting a lean body. To maintain body shape and achieve ideal body weight, a healthy diet and exercise are needed regularly.
Some Conditions Where Tummy Tuck Is Not Recommended
People who want to undergo the tummy tuck procedure must have a healthy physical condition. This action is not recommended for people who:- Having diabetes with uncontrolled blood sugar, heart disease, or chronic liver disease, such as cirrhosis.
- Smoke. Substances in cigarettes can interfere with the smooth flow of blood, which can adversely affect this procedure.
- Still have plans to get pregnant.
- Severe obesity (body mass index more than 30).
- Still have plans to lose weight drastically.
- Having blood clotting disorders, for example due to side effects of blood thinning drugs or hemophilia.
- Have unrealistic expectations.
Possible Risks arising from Tummy Tuck
Just like general surgical procedures, tummy tuck also has risks. Among others are:
- Poor wound healing or detachment of the wound that failed to fuse.
- Bacterial infection. This can be prevented by taking antibiotics according to the doctor's instructions.
- Bleeding.
- Necrosis or tissue death. The risk of this complication is greater in smokers.
- A buildup of fluid or blood in the abdominal cavity after preventing it, the doctor can install a small hose in the abdomen that will be left for several days after surgery.
- Tingling, numbness, or pain in the skin of the abdomen. This is caused by disruption of the nerves in the abdominal wall, and can last for several months or even several years.
- Skin discoloration, swelling, and pain in the operated area. Normal swelling only occurs for six weeks to three months.
- Asymmetrical results, unsatisfactory, or sagging back, resulting in a repeat operation.
Treatment After Tummy Tuck Surgery
After the tummy tuck operation, the surgical wound will be covered with a bandage, and a special hose will be attached to the abdomen for several days to prevent the buildup of fluid.
Patients need to undergo hospital treatment for several days. The doctor will provide painkillers and antibiotics to prevent infection.
Before the patient is allowed to go home, the doctor will explain how to treat surgical wounds and hoses in the stomach. During the recovery period at home, patients are usually advised to do the following:
Use the abdominal binder for approximately six weeks. Its function is to prevent fluid accumulation and support the abdominal wall during the pregnancy period
- Not consuming alcohol and smoking for approximately six weeks after surgery.
- Not doing heavy physical activity, exercise, and driving for six weeks.
- Bathe with a seat and use a sponge while the hose is still attached. About 48 hours after the hose is removed, the patient can return to bathing as usual.
- Sleep with your upper body slightly higher and your knees slightly frozen. How to, prop up your back and knees with a pillow.
- Drink enough water and eat healthy foods, especially vegetables, fruits, and protein.
- Pay attention to the condition of the wound and surgical sutures. If the wound appears red, swollen, or pus out, immediately check back to the doctor.
Although it can significantly improve the shape of the abdomen, the procedure for tummy tuck has various risks. However, this risk can be anticipated and prevented by good preparation and painstaking care.
Follow the instructions of the plastic surgeon to avoid side effects and complications due to this procedure. If you experience complaints in the form of severe pain, bleeding, and fever after surgery, immediately see a doctor again.