Tummy Tuck Risks and Complications
Avoid any vigorous exercise, heavy lift, or gym for 6 weeks after the surgery. Failure to do so will lead to loss of muscle repair, and abdominal bulging (throughout the entire abdomen, around the belly button, or in the upper or lower abdominal area), Although complications following Abdominoplasty are infrequent; the following may occur:
Bleeding
Bleeding, which in rare instances could require hospitalization and blood transfusion. Blood clotsmay form under the skin and require drainage.
Skin irregularities
Skin irregularities, lumpiness, hardness and dimpling may result; some problems disappear withtime and from massage, other problems may persist and additional treatments may be necessary
Infection
Infection is rare but may occur and treatment with antibiotics and/or drainage may be required. Inrare instances surgery may be required for severe infection (such as necrotizing fasciitis.)
Wound dehiscence
Wound dehiscence (wound opening) may occur and is generally allowed to heal on its own. Thismay be related to loss of blood supply to the skin (skin necrosis).
Outpatient nursing
Outpatient nursing may be required to assist with the wound care. You may be required to travelto a local clinic for daily wound care.
Hernia
Hernia may be found during the surgery and may require surgical repair, which may be associatedwith potential injury to the bowel.
Numbness
Numbness of the skin over treated areas is common and can persist for months. In rare cases itmay be permanent.
Abnormal scarring
Abnormal scarring or scar position is rare but is possible.
Dizziness
Dizziness may occur during the first week following Abdominoplasty surgery particularly uponrising from a lying or sitting position. If this occurs, extreme caution may be exercised whilewalking. Do not drive a car if dizziness is present.
Deep Venous Thrombosis
Deep Venous Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism and Fat Embolism may occur.
Abdominal perforation
Abdominal perforation may also occur in rare instances.
The risk of these specific
complications is increased in patients with increased BMI and previous abdominal surgeries. If left untreated these complications may be fatal.