If you have excess skin and fat folds on your abdomen caused by weight
loss or pregnancy it is likely that you will benefit from an abdominoplasty or
tummy tuck. The procedure can sometimes also improve stretch marks,
though laser treatment can also be effective. A tummy tuck will enhance
your shape by making your stomach firmer and flatter.
Prior to surgery, Dr. Semlacher will assess how much excess fat and loose
skin you have in your abdomen as well as the condition of your stomach
muscles.
The standard abdominoplasty incision is made above the pubic area
extends in a horizontal line toward the pelvic bones. Effort is always taken
to keep the incision below the line of a bathing suit or undergarment.
There are several approaches to this procedure depending upon the amount
of skin and fat to be removed. Because there are several possible
approaches that can be used for this surgery, Dr. Semlacher will talk to you
about the method he feels will achieve the best result in your case.
It is possible to experience tissue loss where the abdominoplasty incision
is made if the procedure is extensive. Tissue loss happens more in those
who smoke or have diabetes.
Other risks include fluid accumulation under the skin though accumulated
fluid can be removed painlessly in several office visits.
You will be given a support garment to wear for several weeks and you
should not sit for long periods in the week after your surgery.
While bruising and swelling disappear over a few weeks, numbness in some
areas of the abdomen may persist for several months.
Scars will be deep in color for some time following surgery and will likely
always be visible. In some cases, scars eventually fade to very faint lines.
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