Avoiding Tummy Tuck Complications

Before making the decision to undergo any type of surgery, patients should take the time to evaluate the possible risks and complications. In this way, they can be better prepared and know what to expect from the procedure, while avoiding any red flags that may be apparent. In this article, we will provide a few tips on how to spot these red flags when undergoing a tummy tuck.

Step 1 – Do your research. Get educated on all the risks possible from having the procedure. Find out whether your physician is board-certified and fully licensed. You should also ask for a list of references from past patients who have dealt with the physician prior.

Step 2 – Be aware that complications tend to be quite rare and figure out the ways in which you can avoid ever having to experience them at all. Schedule yourself a full body physical before committing to the procedure to make sure you’re healthy enough to have the operation performed. Your primary physician should be able to confirm whether you are in good enough shape, and discuss any changes that should be made.

Step 3 – Get informed in regard to the more common complications:

• Bleeding – Drains are fairly common, and there is always a small risk of blood pooling. If the condition becomes serious, a blood transfusion may be recommended.
• Swelling – This is quite common during the first few weeks of recovery. Keep an eye on it, and report any odd swelling to your physician.
• Numbness – Some patients experience numbness for several months post-surgery. Your surgeon should check to make sure nerve damage is not the cause.
• Pain – Patients should expect a fair amount of pain during their recovery. While it can be severe, it can be easily treated through the use if prescription pain medications.

Step 4 – Educate yourself as to the more serious, and less typical complications:

• Fat Necrosis – Blood in the skin and fat of the abdomen can become strangled, resulting in possible infection.
• Infection – Make sure to monitor body temperature and report any drastic changes to your physician. This can be a sign of infection and should be treated immediately.
• Umbilical Necrosis – During this procedure, the umbilicus tends to be repositioned. During this process, the blood supply can sometimes become damaged, and result in the area being off center.

Step 5 – Evaluate all the information and make your decisions. While most tummy tucks are completed without any complications at all, it’s a good idea to know what the possible outcomes can be.

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