 All surgery has risks attached. There are 2 types of risks; those specific to tummy tucks and those that can apply to any surgery. These, and the steps taken to minimise them, will be discussed.
The specific complications include:
- Asymmetry of scars
- Umbilical malposition, higher or lower or lateral deviations
- Insufficient or excessive resection, with scar widening resulting
- Partial removal of striae or scars
- Haematomas with bruising of the skin
- Laterally localised fat pads become more prominent (therefore, calling for liposuction)
- “Dog ears” laterally (can be excised at the same time)
- Localised pain or numbness. Sensations usually returns, can take up to
6 months
- Post operative pregnancies have shown to have little effect on abdominoplasties.
The non specific complications include:
- Haematoma: can be drained or aspirated, small ones reabsorb
- Infection: Skin is prepared with Betadine pre-operatively and intra-operative antibiotics given
- Lipolysis (ie breakdown of fatty tissue): the fluid is aspirated. Common in abdomens with thick fatty tissue
- Seroma: clear fluid collection is common. Diminished with a 3 layer closure and corset applied in theatre after the operation is completed
- Necrosis of flap: due to poor blood supply. Very rare.
- Hypertrophic (raised) scars: If there is a history of poor scarring, a silica gel dressing e.g. Cica-Care or Dermatrix can be applied after healing
- Thrombophlebitis or Deep Venous Thrombosis: intra-operative compression stockings and calf stimulation is used and exercise of ankles and lower legs recommended post operatively. If necessary Clexane is given pre-operatively to thin the blood.
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