Is there any way to avoid necrosis after tummy tuck surgery?

Question

Matthias Solomon, MD · Answer

Yes; there is a way to minimize skin necrosis. Traditionally a tummy tuck is done by undermining / undercutting skin from the lower abdominal incision all the way to the rib cage. This disconnects all the blood vessels attached to the skin that has been undercut. I do a modified version of a tummy tuck that preserves most of these blood vessels; this technique (pending trademark) also allows me to do aggressive liposuction at the same time, something that cannot be done with the traditional technique. Although the risk is still there (especially in a smoker), it is as low as it gets. I have personally never had skin necrosis with this operation using the technique I use.This technique also helps me remove more excess skin (as the attached photo will show), and still keep the scar very low, something the traditional TT  technique cannot do.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

Don't smoke, wear compression, be diabetic, obese, or nutritionally compromised. Watch your activity, don't have lipo at the same time.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, the things you can do is to be nicotine free a month before surgery and a month after.  Unfortunately, it does occassional happen to all surgeons in the best designed and performed surgeries, good luck.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The risk of skin necrosis is low but can occur as a complication of surgery. Avoiding nicotine products and your surgeons instructions will minimize risks.  Consult with a board certified plastic surgeon.  Best wishes.

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hello,The main thing to avoid is smoking. Nicotine and other substances in cigarettes is known to delay wound healing. The other is to avoid over doing it, as excess activity can pull on your belly button and your incision. Other than that, follow your surgeon's instructions and keep your follow-ups. All the best!Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Is there any way to avoid necrosis after tummy tuck surgery?

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Answer: Is there any way to avoid necrosis after tummy tuck surgery

Answer: Is there any way to avoid necrosis after tummy tuck surgery

Answer: Post-tummy tuck care

Answer: Post-tummy tuck care

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Is there any way to avoid necrosis after tummy tuck surgery?

Answers (8)

Answer: Is there any way to avoid necrosis after tummy tuck surgery

Answer: Is there any way to avoid necrosis after tummy tuck surgery

Answer: Post-tummy tuck care

Answer: Post-tummy tuck care

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.