| Abdominoplasty
is not a substitute for weight loss. The objective of the
surgery is to improve the contour of the body by flattening
and narrowing the abdomen. The best candidate for the surgery
is the individual who is of normal weight but who has weak
abdominal muscles with excess skin and fat. Age, obesity and
smoking habits are some of the factors that Dr. Edds considers
when evaluating you for this procedure. Smokers are at a much
higher risk for complications following an abdominoplasty
and may not be suitable candidates.
Years ago, a single operation – the full abdominoplasty,
was used for most patients. At this time there is a range
of surgical options designed to address the various problems
encountered with the abdomen. Many patients have problems
confined to the area between the belly button and pubic line
and are good candidates for a “mini-tuck” or limited abdominoplasty.
A full abdominoplasty is indicated when there is a large degree
of excess skin and problems that include the area above the
belly button. The mini-tuck is less expensive than a full
abodminoplasty and has a shorter recovery”.
Before Surgery
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order
to evaluate your general health. A careful examination is
also conducted. Dr. Edds will discuss what can realistically
be expected. Photographs may be taken before and after surgery
to evaluate the amount of improvement. The type of anesthesia
to be used, the procedure, and possible risks and complications
are also discussed.
Preoperative instructions may include the
elimination of certain drugs which contain aspirin in order
to minimize the possibility of excessive bleeding. Antibiotics
may be prescribed prior to surgery to prevent infection. You
may also be advised to shower with an antiseptic soap the
day prior to surgery.
The Procedure
Full abdominoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient
procedure under general anesthesia. Mini-tuck can be performed
in most cases under IV sedation and local anesthesia. Premedication
may be administered to relax you. Although there are several
procedures from which to choose, the one most frequently used
by Dr. Edds involves an incision at the bikini line. In a
full abdomimoplasty, a second incision is made around the
navel. The skin is then separated from the abdominal
wall and lifted up, exposing the loose tissue that covers
the abdominal muscle. Often, weak abdominal muscles are sutured
in order to tighten those which are loose or stretched out.
The skin is then lowered over the abdomen and excess skin
and fat is removed. Before the incisions are closed with small
sutures, if needed the navel is reconstructed, and usually
drains are inserted to eliminate fluid build-up. Bandages
are then applied to the area.
Following
Surgery
You may return home the same day of surgery. If drains are
used, they may remain in place for 3 to 7 days until fluid
levels decrease. Pain and discomfort from the surgery is controlled
with oral medication. Sutures are removed approximately one
week after surgery and bandages are applied. Bandages are
later replaced with an abdominal support garment which is
worn for several weeks. During this time, you must refrain
from heavy lifting, straining or other activity. Although
you are usually up and around the day of surgery, Dr. Edds
decides when normal activities may be resumed. This decision
is based upon the extent of surgery and your progress. Bruising
and swelling which occur around the treated area will disappear
within a few weeks. Scars from the procedure remain but fade
significantly in time.
Each year thousands of abdominoplasties
are successfully performed. The amount of improvement is individual
and depends upon the extent of surgery and your skin tone,
body build and healing process. Complications connected with
the procedure are rare; however, there are inherent risks
connected with every surgical procedure. Possible risks and
complications should be thoroughly discussed with Dr. Edds
prior to surgery. You can minimize complications by carefully
following directions given by Dr. Edds.
Insurance companies do not pay for abdominoplasty
if it is performed for cosmetic reasons.
If you are interested in learning more about
this procedure, please call our office at (270) 926-9033
and we will be happy to answer questions about the
procedure itself or about procedure cost and financing.
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