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Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty):
A protruding abdomen as a result of weak abdomina l muscles, weight gain,
or pregnancy is a condition that causes distress to thousands of
people. This condition does not respond well to diet or exercise
because the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched. Today, a
remarkable procedure called, abdominoplasty has been designed to
flatten a protruding abdomen through the tightening of abdominal wall
muscles and removal of excess fatty tissue and skin.
Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss. The objective of
the surgery is to improve the contour of the body by flattening and
narrowing the abdomen. The best candidate for the surgery is the
individual who is of normal weight but who has weak abdominal muscles
and excess skin and fat. Age, obesity and smoking habits are some of
the factors the physician considers when evaluating a candidate for
this procedure.
BEFORE SURGERY
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to
evaluate the general health of the patient. A careful examination is
also conducted. Dr. Gordon and patient discuss together what can
realistically be expected. Photographs will be taken before surgery.
The type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, and possible risks
and complications are also discussed. Pre-operative instructions may
include the elimination of certain drugs that contain aspirin in order
to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding. Antibiotics will be
prescribed prior to surgery to prevent infection. The patient will also
be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap for several days prior to
surgery. Every effort will be made to schedule this surgery when the
patient is NOT having her mense.
THE PROCEDURE
Abdominoplasty is usually performed in the Complete Cosmetic Surgery
Center's Outpatient Facility, under general anesthesia with the patient
asleep. Pre-medication may be administered to relax the patient.
Although there are several procedures from which to choose, the one
most frequently used by physicians involves a horizontal incision made
below one hipbone and across the pubic area to under the other hip
bone. A second incision is made around the navel. The skin is then
separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up to the breastbone
exposing the loose tissue that covers the abdominal muscle. Lax
abdominal muscles are sutured in order to tighten loose or stretched
out muscles. The skin is then lowered over the abdomen and excess skin
and fat is removed. Before the incisions are closed with small sutures,
the navel is reconstructed, and usually drains are inserted to
eliminate fluid buildup. A compression garment is applied, we
routinelly use a pain pump for 3-4 days.
FOLLOWING SURGERY
This procedure is done as outpatient surgery. Patients often go home
within one hour to 1.5 hours after surgery. Drains may be removed three
to four days after the procedure when fluid levels decrease. Pain or
discomfort from the surgery is controlled with oral medication. Any
retained sutures are removed approximately three weeks after surgery.
The abdominal support garment, is worn for several weeks. During this
time, patients must refrain from heavy lifting, straining or
over-activity. Although patients are usually up and around the day of
surgery, the physician decides when normal activities may be resumed.
This decision is based upon the extent of surgery and the patient's
progress. Bruising and swelling which occur around the treated area
will disappear within a few weeks. Scars from the procedure remain but
fade significantly in time.
Each
year thousands of abdominoplasties are successfully performed. The
amount of improvement is individual and depends upon the extent of
surgery and the patient's skin tone, body build, and healing process.
Complications connected with the procedure are rare; however there are
inherent risks connected with every surgical procedure. Possible risks
and complications will be thoroughly discussed with Dr. Gordon prior to
surgery. Patients can minimize complications by carefully following
directions given by the physician.
Most
insurance companies do not pay for abdominoplasty if it is performed
for cosmetic reasons. Some insurance companies do pay benefits if the
patient has severe laxity of the abdominal wall with back pain and/or
umbilical or ventral hernia. Each insurance carrier is different, and
it is recommended that individuals check with their own agents to
determine if there is coverage. Complete Cosmetic Surgery Center will
not accept insurance commitments or payments.
If
you are interested in learning more about abdominoplasty, please call
our office toll free (888) 262-9933 or e-mail us and we will be happy
to answer your questions.
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