Abdominoplasty with Liposuction - When Do Complications Occur?

When do complications develop after the surgery is performed. When are you out of danger after this is performed?

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combination complication

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6 Doctor Answers | Asked by CHRISSYSMITH in WINCHESTER KY

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Abdominoplasty and liposuction

Certainly performing multiple procedures at the same time can increase the risks of complications. I personally have found that when combining these two surgeries, my patients drain more and they are a slightly increased risk of seroma formation.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

When can complications occur after tummy tuck

Typically complications occur after tummy tuck within the first few weeks. Wound healing issues and infection are usually seen in this time and can be treated if diagnosed promptly. Also, blood clot formation in the legs (Deep Vein Thrombosis-DVTs) can develop days to weeks after surgery and needs to treated immediately. It's important that you be seen by your surgeon regularly after surgery (day after, week after, month after) to evaluate your wound and look for... more

Complications can occur at anytime

Now, what do I mean by that. Complications are grouped into immediate, early and late. Early we are concerned with the health and safety of the patient especially things like pulmonary embolism and venous thrombosis which can be life-threatening, and the viability of the flaps. Late complications are those of the end result like scarring, irregularities pain etc. This should be discussed with your doctor far in advance of any planned surgery.

Timing the risks of tummy tuck and liposuction

Complications may occur intraoperatively and extend outwards to 3 weeks post-operatively. Thereafter the risk of complications from combined surgery generally diminishes, in my opinion.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

32 reviews

Chicago Plastic Surgeon

Complications after tummy tuck- the clock is ticking...

I've noticed most serious wound healing issues arise around post-op day 12-14 -- typically this is when the wound is structurally at its weakest. Most patients are 'out of the woods' after about 30 days.

First 7-10 days

This is a very general question and will take a long time to cover all the complications that can happen. The majority of the complication can happen during the first 7-10 days.