Risks And Safety Of Abdominoplasty
October 9, 2009
While the most serious and complicated surgical procedures performed today are far, far safer than even minor surgery performed 180 years ago , surgical procedures such as abdominoplasty still have risks. Let’s take a closer look at the risks of abdominoplasty.
Ultimately the decision to have abdominoplasty is solely yours, the choice is yours whether the outcome holds a greater benefit than the possibility of the risks.
Your doctor is responsible for discussing all risks and possible complications, below is a list of all common risks of abdominoplasty.
Risks Involving Your Health
Hematoma, excess bleeding, is one of the most common risks after surgery. By taking vaso-dilators and anti-inflammatory medication the risk can be reduced. Infection; although all measures are taken to sterilize the operating environment certain microbes are still able to enter the wound causing an infection. Antibiotics can be used to treat an infection; however, surgical incisions are difficult to treat.
There may also be complications due to anesthesia; on rare occasions, a patient reacts badly, which is why it is vital for your doctor to know any and everything about your medical history and any possible allergies you may have to anything.
A few other surgical risks are; nerve damage which could cause a loss of sensation or numbness, necrosis of the tissue and deep vein thrombosis which happens when a clot forms and cuts off circulation.
Aesthetic Outcomes
Even though you may have the best surgeon in your city the possibility of an undesired outcome still exists. Every patient is different and the surgeon cannot take responsibility for each outcome. Abdominoplasty does not have the same appearance outcome for everyone. The possibility of loose skin is high as well as swelling and the discoloration of skin. Also, scarring is inevitable; surgeons make an effort to make incisions on the body where scars are unlikely to be visible but they will still been seen. Fortunately these risks are rare; most cases come from surgeons who are unfamiliar with plastic and cosmetic surgery. For this reason it is important that you select a certified surgeon through the American Society of Plastic Surgeons such as Dr John Moore.
