How common are complications during abdominoplasty?

Question

I have had a couple of unusually traumatic c-sections so I get a little bit of surgery anxiety. I know it's a common surgery. I mostly have heard about post-surgery complications rather than any complications possible during surgery. For someone young and healthy, would it be uncommon?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the safety of abdominoplasty. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience, I can tell you that while complications during abdominoplasty are rare, they can still occur.

Some potential risks during surgery include bleeding, infection, and anesthesia-related complications. However, these risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon, following pre-operative instructions carefully, and disclosing your medical history and any medications you are taking.

That being said, it is important to note that complications during abdominoplasty are relatively rare, especially for young and healthy patients. The most common post-operative complications are related to healing and include swelling, bruising, and discomfort. These can be managed with appropriate post-operative care and follow-up visits with your plastic surgeon.

It is completely understandable to feel anxious about surgery, especially if you have had traumatic experiences with previous surgeries. However, I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and the anesthesiologist before the procedure. They can provide you with additional information, reassurance, and steps to minimize anxiety.

In summary, while complications during abdominoplasty can occur, they are rare, especially for young and healthy patients. Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon and following pre-operative and post-operative instructions can help minimize the risks. I hope this information has been helpful. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katzen

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

The risks of complications for someone young and healthy are generally very low, but not absent.  During a consultation with your surgeon, he or she will be able to assess your risks, and provide you with information regarding the relative safety.

Aftab Siddiqui, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Complications during abdominoplasty are rare, occurring in less than 2 percent of cases. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and side effects associated with the procedure. The most common complications include infection, bleeding, and scarring.
Infection: Infection is a rare complication that can occur after any surgery. The risk of infection is higher in patients who smoke or have diabetes.
Bleeding: Bleeding is another rare complication that can occur after any surgery. If you have a history of bleeding disorders, you may be at increased risk for this complication.
Scarring: All surgical procedures result in some degree of scarring. The amount of scarring will depend on the size and location of the incisions.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear strattot,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. With a good preoperative preparation and surgical technique, the risk of complications can be reduced. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Heather Vande Ven, DO · Answer

The occurrence of complications during abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) can vary depending on several factors, including the patient’s health, the surgeon’s experience, and the type of abdominoplasty performed. Common complications can include infection, bleeding, seroma (fluid accumulation), poor scarring, and delayed wound healing. However, the overall complication rate is relatively low when the surgery is performed by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited facility. It's important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can assess your individual situation and discuss the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure.

Manuel Diaz, MD · Answer

Your health is our first concern, we make sure your hemoglobin, BMI and every levels is within range before surgery to avoid any type of complications

Bruce K. Smith, MD · Answer

It is absolutely understandable that you would be apprehensive in regard to abdominoplasty surgery after having complicated C-sections. While there are risks of infection, bleeding and hematoma, delayed wound healing and deep vein thrombosis; these occur in less than 5% and can usually be easily managed. If you are as healthy as you say, you are probably an ideal candidate for the procedure. I would discuss your specific concerns in detail with your surgeon, however. With every decision in life there are risks and there are benefits. In your situation, it sounds like the benefits far outnumber the risks.

M. Shuja Shafqat, MD · Answer

Good morning,
Overall complications during an abdominoplasty are relatively low. Some are more common than others, but thankfully for the healthy patient, major complications are uncommon. A board certified plastic surgeon can assess you during a consultation to determine what your risk would be. 
Many patients compare their experience during a C-section to what they might experience during an abdominoplasty. While the area we are operating is similar, the goals of these two surgeries are very different and hence the surgeries are done differently. 
Hope this helps!
Best,Shuja Shafqat, MD

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Typically patients do very well after a tummy tuck and heal nicely.  Safety is always the number one priority in surgery.  It is important to be up front with your surgeon when discussing your medical history and any medications or supplements that you take.  It is also important to closely follow your surgeon's post op instructions and report any concerns.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

All surgeries carry the potential for varied complications.  Abdominoplasty is a safe procedure in the right hands and with a healthy patient.

How common are complications during abdominoplasty?

Answers (11)

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