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A tummy tuck involves removing excess skin, tightening the deep muscle and possible additional liposuction of the flanks. A DIEP flap may also tighten the muscle and the amount of skin removed may be the same but there is no additional liposuction. Therefore the results of the two may look similar after surgery but the actual technique is very different.
A TRAM flap harvest does improve the contour of the abdomen but the incision may be higher than the standard abdominoplasty scar.
The answer to your question is somewhat complex. In all breast reconstruction cases, using abdominal wall skin, you to get a procedure similar to a tummy tuck. Note that I said "similar".During these breast reconstruction cases, the key to the operation is the preservation of the blood vessels a supply the blood to the skin and the fat of the abdominal wall. These blood vessels are centered around the umbilicus.As these vessels need to be preserved, the top margin of a breast reconstruction case is typically somewhat higher than the top margin of a tummy tuck. This gives the end result of the incision being a little bit higher than a traditional tummy tuck. It remains on the lower portion of the abdomen, but not as low as a tummy tuck incision.Also during a tummy tuck, an important part of this operation is the repair of the rectus diastases. During breast reconstruction surgery, you may have some tightening of your abdominal wall however will not be to the same extent as during a cosmetic procedure.I hope this answers your questions, good luck with your process
As long as you're back and head are flexed or lifted up right by pillows or back support so that you're comfortable lying in bed you should be able to do so. However it is crucial that you ask your plastic surgeon for specific advice. Most patients 3 weeks after tummy tuck are able...
Your incision will improve with time. Incisions continue to remodel for several months and yours will definitely improve. Also consider massage and a silicone based scar cream.
It's unlikely that the "air bubbles" you describe are concerning, but it is truly best to speak to your surgeon. He is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery. I'm sorry to hear that you don't feel he is giving you adequate time or...
