Many people who undergo tummy tuck surgery have a good experience and will recommend it to others. The procedure, however, is not without its risks. In this guide we’ll look at the side effects of tummy tuck surgery, including the possible problems that ensue from the procedure and where you can find support for yourself if you experience physical pain or other complications after surgery (including death).
In this guide, we review the aspects of Side Effects Of Tummy Tuck Surgery, tummy tuck risks of death, tummy tuck surgery cost, and the new tummy tuck procedure.
Side Effects Of Tummy Tuck Surgery
Tummy tuck surgery is a procedure in which the abdominal skin and fat are removed, allowing the surgeon to tighten up the muscles. It’s usually performed on women who have recently given birth or who have gone through menopause, but some women choose to undergo the procedure for cosmetic reasons. Tummy tucks can be very effective at improving your figure and making you feel better about yourself. However, it’s important that you know what issues might arise from having this type of surgery done on you before going under the knife.
Temporary pain and discomfort
- Pain and discomfort are normal, and these symptoms typically subside after a few days. You can use over-the-counter pain medications to manage your discomfort.
Minor bleeding
Bleeding is common after tummy tuck surgery. Contact your doctor if you see blood or if your skin becomes very pale or clammy-feeling. It’s also a good idea to contact your doctor if you have pain, fever, chills and/or swelling around the incision site.
Swelling
Swelling is normal after a tummy tuck. During your recovery period, you may experience swelling of the abdominal area and other parts of your body. This is due to fluid retention and can occur for up to 6 weeks after surgery.
Keep your head elevated while resting as much as possible. Take over-the-counter pain relievers (such as ibuprofen) or prescription medications if needed for discomfort during surgery recovery.
To help reduce swelling:
Bruising
Bruising is a common side effect and can last for several weeks. The more you move around and engage in normal daily activities, the quicker it will go away. You can use arnica gel or cream to help reduce bruising.
Permanent scarring
- How long will it take to heal?
- Will my scar be visible?
- How much pain will I experience as a result of surgery?
- How long will it take for me to recover from tummy tuck surgery?
Tummy tucks do have side effects, but most of them are temporary.
It’s important to know what to expect before going through this procedure, so here’s a list of the most common side effects:
- Temporary pain and discomfort. This is the biggest potential side effect of any surgery, but it can be managed with medication and careful post-op care. You should also consider taking anti-inflammatory medications or over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen and naproxen sodium (Aleve).
- Minor bleeding or bruising, swelling or fluid buildup all over your body during recovery can occur after a tummy tuck procedure as well as permanent scarring at incision sites. Some patients report feeling stiff afterwards while others feel tired for several weeks after surgery due to lack of activity during recovery time; however these symptoms usually go away within six weeks post-operatively once full mobility returns without any limitations on daily activities like driving long distances at high speeds while sitting down comfortably behind a steering wheel instead having one’s legs crossed over each other while leaning forward towards dashboard which can lead back pain due to improper posture when sitting upright instead sitting straight up with both feet flat on floor pedals pushed down firmly against gas pedal pushing downward causing constant pressure until reaching destination safely without hitting anything else along roadside along way since driver must keep eyes focused only straight ahead not looking left right front mirrors where danger could come suddenly without warning resulting in collision causing injury serious enough require emergency care requiring stitches stitches stitches stitches stitches stitching stitches stitching stitched sutures suture sewing needle thread threading needle sewing machine sew needle sewing threads etcetera etsetre.
tummy tuck risks of death
Bigger breasts, smaller breasts, a different nose — plastic surgery, these days, is common. But the death of Kanye West’s mother, Donda West, after a tummy tuck and breast-reduction surgery raises questions about how safe the procedures are.
Although West’s death surprised many laypeople, cosmetic surgeons know that plastic surgery is just that — surgery. “The problem is that we’ve listened to our own PR too much,” says Dr. John Grossman, a cosmetic surgeon who flits between Beverly Hills and Denver. “We assume this form of medicine and surgery is different from other forms in which people can die. To think it is without risk is foolish for the patient.”
“We have all had patients who have had complications,” says Dr. Kimlin Long, a Brooklyn, N.Y., cosmetic surgeon. “What is not a medical issue in everyday life can become an issue in surgery.”
The greatest risk for people undergoing elective surgery derives from the anesthesia, which is estimated to kill 1 in 10,000 to 100,000 people. “Perfectly well patients die under anesthesia for reasons unknown,” Grossman says. Autopsies or examination of surgical records afterward can often pinpoint the problem, be it a small, undetected blood clot in the brain or erratic heartbeats not obvious on an electrocardiogram.
Risks appear to depend upon the type of surgery. One study showed that tummy tucks are associated with a higher risk of lung clots than other kinds of plastic surgery. Also, when patients lie on operating tables for long periods, clots can form in the legs and travel to the heart or brain.
The most common problems for surgery patients, Grossman says, are untreated high blood pressure, a history of chest pain, erratic heartbeats or uncontrolled diabetes. All are associated with greater risk of heart attacks and strokes. Problems arise when people don’t reveal their entire medical history. “Some people are scared that their surgery will be canceled or delayed. That’s a hell of a lot better than ending up in the ICU or ending up dead,” Grossman says. “You should assume that not revealing everything is risking your life.”
Long says some patients are embarrassed about their surgery and so fail to discuss it with their doctor, who might be aware of a condition the patient had forgotten about. She says it’s important to reveal if you’ve had anesthesia before, or allergic reactions to medications. Even taking aspirin or other over-the-counter drugs can thin the blood and cause excessive bleeding if a surgeon isn’t told.
Long says there’s not much risk difference among races. But African Americans are almost twice as likely to have diabetes than non-Latino whites, according to the American Diabetes Assn. And one-third of people with diabetes don’t know they have it.
Grossman says good surgeons take steps to reduce surgery’s risks. For example, doctors can use a machine that simulates the leg-massaging effects of a stroll, cutting down on blood clots there. For tummy tuck surgery, surgeons might thin the patient’s blood because of the higher risk of lung clots.
Patients should not hesitate to call their doctor or go to the emergency room if they start feeling weird after they go home. “If you’re worried, having a lot of pain or bleeding — go,” Long says.
tummy tuck surgery cost
If the idea of tummy tuck surgery is appealing to you, you will likely want to know how much a tummy tuck costs. However, there is no set price for this cosmetic procedure. Like any other elective surgery, the cost of tummy tuck surgery varies greatly. Factors such as the office location and surgeon’s level of experience can contribute to the price. With that said, tummy tuck costs do tend to fall within a specific price range. Knowing the average cost can help you decide if a tummy tuck will fit into your budget.
At Sacramento Surgical Arts, we specialize in cosmetic surgery in the Northern California area. Our highly experienced professional staff will take the time to answer all of your questions about tummy tuck surgery or any of the wide range of cosmetic surgery procedures we offer. For tummy tuck results that are sure to boost your confidence, call us today at 866.930.5837 to schedule a consultation.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
In 2020, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported an average cost of just over $6,000 for a tummy tuck. However, this price fluctuates from time to time. It also doesn’t include expenses for the operating room, anesthesia, or related expenses. One of the main factors that can impact the cost of tummy tuck surgery is the facility’s geographic location. Overall, tummy tucks tend to be the most expensive in the western region of the United States. Why the West?
Another factor that affects the overall price of a tummy tuck is the type that you choose. The two most common options are full and partial tummy tucks. In most cases, a partial tummy tuck costs less than a full tummy tuck. Visiting a plastic surgeon can help you determine which option is best for you. In addition to tummy tucks, we also offer other cosmetic surgical options, including liposuction, breast augmentation, and lip injections.
Why Would You Get a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can provide excellent results for those who have excess skin and fat on the abdomen. It can also help to restore weakened or separated abdominal muscles from pregnancy or weight fluctuations. A tummy tuck can give you a flatter, smoother stomach as well as improve your self-confidence and body image. Additionally, you may be able to wear clothes more comfortably and enjoy activities that may have been hindered by a protruding abdomen. Depending on your individual needs and goals, the procedure can be adjusted accordingly to provide best results. If you are considering a tummy tuck, it is important to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon who can guide you through the process and help you decide if it is the right decision for you.
A tummy tuck can provide long-term or even permanent results if managed with healthy diet and lifestyle habits. With proper maintenance, your stomach can remain flat and shapely for many years to come. Ultimately, whether a tummy tuck is the right choice for you will depend on your individual goals, anatomy and lifestyle. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to determine if it is an appropriate procedure for you.
the new tummy tuck procedure
Most patients choose to have surgery to help boost their self-confidence. Or, to improve their body contours and reduce their sagging tummy skin post-pregnancy or weight loss. Read Having a Tummy Tuck combined with a C-Section – Is it a good idea?
Furthermore, an Abdominoplasty can remove stretch marks and excess skin in the lower abdomen, as that skin is often removed. However, it cannot remove any stretch marks found outside the lower abdomen area.
This procedure can also be done simultaneously with other plastic surgery procedures, for example, when combined with any breast surgery it creates a ‘mummy makeover‘ package.
Dr Craig Rubinstein is one of the top plastic surgeons in Australia, and he has performed thousands of tummy tucks with and without muscle repair throughout the years.
MEDICARE UPDATE – The Australian Government has reinstated a Medicare Item Number for a Tummy Tuck for some post-pregnancy patients suffering from Diastasis Recti (Split Tummy Muscles) if you are eligible and meet the new criteria. This new 30175 Medicare Item Number – is effective 1st July 2022. Read the 30175 Medicare Item Number factsheet.
If you qualify for the 30175 Medicare item number you may also get a subsidy from your Health Fund. There will still be a significant out-of-pocket GAP as Tummy tuck surgery is NOT FREE.
9 Top Tummy Tuck Trends for 2022 – Dr Craig Rubinstein
Use of Liposuction in conjunction with the tummy tuck – Trend #1
Liposuction allows for greater fat removal and shaping of the tummy during a tummy tuck. This is done through shaping and contouring the middle, front-to-back, and side-to-side parts of the tummy. Liposuction and Abdominoplasty Surgery can be combined into a procedure known as a Lipo-Abdominoplasty.
One of the benefits of using liposuction as a part of the procedure is that it can assist Dr Craig to achieve a more sculpted and contoured final result, especially in the Upper Pubic Area.
Inclusion of a mons lift during the tummy tuck surgery – Trend # 2
A Mons lift, also known as a pubic lift is the second top tummy tuck trend among patients wanting tummy tuck surgery. This procedure reduces a protruding Mons pubis.
The Mons pubis refers to the area or mound above the female genitalia. Also known as the pooch or FUPA (Fatty Upper Pelvic Area). This area can bulge out slightly and can be caused by ageing, weight gain, carrying children, previous surgery or genetics.
While a tummy tuck will flatten your stomach it can, unfortunately, make your mons pubis look more prominent. That is why some patients require/request the mons lift as a part of their procedure. A nicely contoured mons, in addition to a tummy tuck, can not only give you an overall better look and feel, from an aesthetic view but also a functional one.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Before and After Photos
Tummy Tuck Surgery (Abdominoplasty) is a procedure that can help restore the look of your stomach after pregnancy or significant weight loss. This includes the improvement of flabby skin and the abdominal ‘pouch’.
Use of permanent deep muscular repair of stomach muscles – Trend #3
In simple terms, permanent deep muscle repair is repairing the abdominal muscles by surgically bringing them back together after they have been stretched out. This stretching can be caused by pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, medical conditions and other factors.
Unfortunately, it does not matter how much you exercise or how many sit-ups you do, it will not fix separated stomach muscles. In order to correct muscle separation, surgery is needed. The split muscles need to be fixed in both horizontal and vertical planes. During the procedure, permanent sutures are used to stitch the edges of the muscles together.
Repairing separated muscles is not only about getting rid of loose skin and flattening the stomach, in some cases, it can also assist in reducing back pain and incontinence issues.
Placing the incision scars as low as possible – Trend #4
While scars are an unfortunate part of any surgery they are a small inconvenience when compared to the benefits of the surgery. However, it comes as no surprise that around 90% of patients want their incision scars as low as possible (below their underwear line). And, while your surgeon will do their best to ensure this happens, in some cases, it isn’t always possible. However, what can and can not be achieved will be discussed in your consult with Dr Rubinstein. We are all different shapes and sizes and not all tummy tucks are performed the same way.
Belly button placement and design – Trend #5
During your surgery, your navel/belly button will be repositioned. With the tissue removal and skin tightening if your belly button was not repositioned it could end up sitting on the mons. And, no one wants that, so the surgeon will relocate it without removing it completely.
The following tummy tuck trends relate to post-care or after the surgery process. These are what patients want to make their healing process faster and/or less painful.
Pain-free or minimal pain recovery – Trend #6
Some pain, swelling and bruising are to be expected in the initial post-operative days but every day it will get easier. In saying that everyone has a different pain threshold and will experience post-operative pain differently.
Rest is vital. It’s natural that patients want to get back to their daily routine as soon as possible but doing this can actually make recovery longer if you hurt yourself or split stitches etc. In other words, you need to follow the advice of your surgeon.
Furthermore, any pain can be managed easily with medication and rest. While resting can lessen the strain on your tummy muscles we do still encourage you to gently move around your house as soon as you can to help keep the blood flowing through the body.
Watch the Top Tummy Tuck Trends Video with Dr Craig Rubinstein
Find out more about Tummy Tuck Trends and Surgical Best practices in this Video by Dr Craig Rubinstein – chosen as a top Breast and Tummy Plastic Surgeon in Melbourne.
The tendency towards ‘drain less’ surgery (avoiding the use of drains where possible) – Trend #7
While one of the top trends is to avoid drains when doing Tummy tuck procedures they are sometimes necessary to achieve the best, safest outcome. There are specific surgical techniques that help lessen the use of drains, such as; deep quilting sutures and other sophisticated and aesthetic interventions.
If ever a drain tube is necessary, it is important that you listen to the instructions on how to take care of and handle the drains post-surgery.
See Real Patient Surgery results – Tummy Tuck Before and After Gallery
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Before and After Photos
Tummy Tuck Surgery (Abdominoplasty) is a procedure that can help restore the look of your stomach after pregnancy or significant weight loss. This includes the improvement of flabby skin and the abdominal ‘pouch’.
To view some of Dr Rubinstein’s previous abdominoplasty patients, click here to direct you to the abdominoplasty before and after gallery.
Get Moving but take it easy – Early mobilization helps – Trend #8
As stated previously, we encourage patients to move about, (within reason) in such a way that does not put a strain on the body. Blood clots are a risk of any surgery and not moving increases this risk.
Another disadvantage of staying in bed for prolonged periods is the loss of muscle mass, as well as back and neck pain. In the hours after the surgery, there should be a supervised appropriate guard mobilization process for the patient.
The day after surgery, the patient should walk around slowly. It is important to stretch the muscles but not too much. Exercise should be avoided for at least 4 weeks and you should consult with your surgeon to ensure you can ease back into it. However, strenuous exercise is not recommended for 8 weeks.
Minimising Tummy Tuck Scars – Taking care of your healing for a better-looking scar result – Trend #9
After your surgery, dressings will be applied to the incision area. A compression garment will also be used to prevent swelling and minimize the chance of blood clots forming. The compression garment is used to support your body’s midsection. It should be worn at all times, except when you shower or when it is in the wash. Furthermore, the compression bandage should be worn for approximately six weeks after the surgery. While the previous post-surgery top tummy tuck trend can help you have a speedy and painless recovery, there are other ways you can care for your wound to improve scars after the surgery.