Abdominoplasty – The Positives and Negatives of This Operation

Abdominoplasty is an operation to slenderize the midsection. There are lots of positive aspects of it, but also some negatives to be aware of.

An abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to tighten up the belly region. Another name for this operation is a tummy tuck. Many individuals opt for this procedure because the abdominal area is one that commonly becomes stretched out, flabby and unattractive. This is true for both males and females, although childbearing gives women more reason to want a tummy tuck. This plastic surgery technique can be a big benefit and an effective way to enhance one’s appearance. Like all surgeries, however, there are some downsides to the operation due to risks of complication.

Positive aspects of the abdominoplasty include:

- A tightened up midsection: Not only is the outer layer of flabby skin firmed up, but the inner girdle of fascia or connective tissue is cinched in as well. When this fascia gets stretched out, it no longer holds internal organs into their proper positioning. Tight outside skin will still protrude if the inner girdle isn’t made tauter at the same time.

- Looking better in clothing: Many people believe that a bulging belly makes all clothes look dismal. Chubby waistlines pop snaps, dresses appear to be maternity wear and blue jeans just won’t fit properly. Many people finally become confident enough to stroll on the beach in a bathing suit after they’ve recovered from this operation.

- Whole body harmony: With a taut tummy, the rest of the body falls into harmony. The hips and bustline look curvier on a female. A male’s hips appear sleeker; his chest looks more manly.

- Increased self esteem: When a person is happy with the way they look, their self image brightens and quality of life improves. While many other factors can contribute to an increase in self confidence, it is common that people derive self esteem through physical appearance, and this surgery can boost that.

Negative aspects of the procedure include:

- Risk of infection: Every surgery has a risk of infection, and a physician will instruct patients what to be on the look-out for. Antibiotics may be given as a matter of course.

- Blood pooling: Hematomas are collections of blood which pool directly under the skin following the procedure. This can be a problem, and by following the doctor's directions can be avoided or taken care of quickly.

- Fluid build up: Another name for excess fluid build up is “seroma,” which is a common problem in an abdominoplasty. During the procedure, drains are often placed to alleviate this. The patient will have to learn to care for and empty the drains for several weeks post-op.

- Numbness in the region: Numbness in the abdominal region and thighs may result initially. The numbness is usually temporary and clears up over time.

- Skin death: There are occasions when skin dies and sloughs off. Cigarette smoking and diabetes are associated with an increase in this problem.

- Expensive: A tummy tuck costs several thousands of dollars. A person should be ready and willing to change their lifestyle after the surgery in order to maintain the look indefinitely.

There are lots of great reasons to have an abdominoplasty performed. Looking better and feeling better about one’s appearance has many added benefits including lowering stress. Every medical procedure on the planet has some risk of complications. A patient should be aware of both the pros and the cons before deciding if this operation is right for them.

Article Tags: Tummy Tuck

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