Possible Risks and Complications from a
Tummy Tuck

Thousands of abdominoplasties are performed successfully each year. When done by a qualified plastic surgeon who is trained in body contouring, the results are generally quite positive. Nevertheless, there are always risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

Post-operative complications such as infection and blood clots are rare, but can occur. Infection can be treated with drainage and antibiotics. You can minimize the risk of blood clots by moving around as soon after the surgery as possible. We tell patients that there is NO BEDREST following a tummy tuck. You should walk at least a few steps every few hours, including on the day that you had surgery.

Poor healing, which results in conspicuous scars, may necessitate a second operation. Smoking increases the risk of complications and poor wound healing. We advise all smokers who are considering tummy tuck that they should stop at least two weeks, and preferably a month, prior to the procedure.

The procedure is done under general anesthesia. As currently performed with modern medicines and monitoring equipment, anesthesia is extraordinarily safe but it does have some very small risks associated with it.

Some patients develop fluid collections under the skin after we remove their drains. In this situation we will sometimes take steps to remove this fluid, though this does not require an additional formal surgery.

You can reduce your risk of complications by closely following your surgeon's instructions before and after the surgery, especially with regard to when and how you should resume physical activity. We will give you detailed pre-op and post-op instructions to help with your planning.

For more information about Los Angeles Tummy Tuck contact this Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon at 310-550-6300 or email us.