Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) - cont.
If there is a hernia present, this may be addressed at the same time. Small hernias may be repaired by the plastic surgeon, but large hernias may require working in conjunction with a general surgeon. An abdominoplasty may also be performed simultaneously with other abdominal surgeries, such as a hysterectomy.
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After |
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Age: 47 yo
Procedures:
- Full abdominoplasty
- Flank liposuction
- Breast Reduction
• Amount removed: Left: 352g; Right: 434g
- Hysterectomy (by GYN surgeon)
- Umbilical hernia repair (by general surgeon)
Time after surgery: 14 months |
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Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Surgery
Typically, the surgery is performed on an outpatient basis with general anesthesia. If combined with other procedures, an overnight stay in the hospital may be recommended, but this is determined on a case by case basis. The patient is first marked in an upright position prior to entering the operating room. At the end of the case, 2 temporary drains are placed underneath the skin to prevent fluid accumulation in the abdomen. The patient is then placed in an abdominal binder which provides compression to the surgical site as well as back support.
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After |
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Age: 44 yo
Procedures:
- Full abdominoplasty
- Flank liposuction
- Hysterectomy (by GYN surgeon)
Time after surgery: 2 months |
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Recovery from Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
The patient will awake in a flexed position as this takes tension off of the incision. This slightly flexed position is encouraged for the first 2 weeks while standing and walking. When sleeping, the patient may be more comfortable with pillows beneath the head and knees. For the initial 24 hrs after surgery, it is normal for there to be drainage staining the dressing on the outside. The patient is seen in the next few days for a postoperative visit, and the drains remain until there is minimal output. The patient is asked to limit his/her activity for a period of 2 weeks from the day of the surgery. At that time, he/she will gradually start resuming his/her normal level of activity with the expectation that he/she will be back to normal at approximately 4 weeks.
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After |
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Age: 49 yo
Procedures:
- Full abdominoplasty
- Lateral thigh and hip VASER liposuction
- Breast augmentation
•Incision: Periareolar
•Implants: Saline, moderate profile,
- Left: 400cc,
- Right: 350cc
- Umbilical hernia repair
Time after surgery: 10 months |
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Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Risks and complications
Risks and complications are uncommon, but may occur. They include, but are not limited to: infection, bleeding, unfavorable scarring, delayed wound healing, sensory changes of the overlying skin, malposition of the umbilicus, waviness, fluid collection beneath the skin (seroma), and need for revision in the future. Swelling is normal after surgery and minimized by wearing a compression garment for several weeks.
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After |
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Age: 45 yo
Procedures:
- Full-abdominoplasty
- Flank liposuction
- Hysterectomy (by GYN surgeon)
Time after surgery: 5.5 months |
Procedures that may complement Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
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