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Tummy Tuck - Risks

Virginia Center For Plastic Surgery - Serving Washington DC

Risks of tummy tucks include both general risks associated with any surgical procedure of similar scope, and risks that are specific to the tummy tuck procedure.

As with any surgical procedure, it is important that you understand the risks involved and discuss any concerns with a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon.

Risks of Anesthesia

Any procedure involving anesthesia carries risks, and risks of general anesthesia are greater than risks for local anesthetics or IV sedation. The primary risks involved with general sedation are respiratory related.

If you have a preexisting cardiac or pulmonary disease, if you smoke, or if you use prescription or non-prescription drugs, your risks may be more pronounced. Be sure to tell your surgeon about any medical conditions you have, medications you are taking, or other factors that might increase your chance of complications from anesthesia.

You should ask your surgeon who will be providing your anesthesia. It takes years of specialize training to provide safe anesthesia for cosmetic surgery patients. Board certified anesthesiologists and CRNA's (under the supervision of a board certified anesthesiologist) are the medical specialists who are most qualified and licensed to provide your anesthesia care.

Infection

As with any surgical procedure, there is always some risk of infection. In those rare cases that infections occur, they can usually be treated with antibiotics. However, in some very rare types of infection, the condition can be fatal. Most infections can be effectively prevented simply by keeping the wound clean and watching the area carefully during the healing process.

Hematoma

A hematoma is a collection of blood forming under the skin. The most common form of hematoma is simply a bruise. However, if the hematoma is unusually large, it may require surgery to repair.

Seroma

Serum is a clear yellow fluid contained in whole blood. Occasionally, the procedure can cause pooling of this serum under the skin, a condition known as seroma. If seroma does occur, it can be treated by draining the area.

Embolism, Thrombosis

This is a rare but serious complication that occurs when a blood clot, or thromboembolus, breaks off and enters a blood vessel, causing obstruction or occlusion. Once it enters the bloodstream, it travels to the lungs or the brain. Signs of pulmonary embolism, or embolism in the lungs, include difficulty breathing and shortness of breasth. If you develop any of these symptoms following a procedure, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Necrosis

Necrosis is a very uncommon condition in which the tissue near the site of the procedure starts to die. In the very rare cases in which living tissue becomes necrotic, further surgery may be required to remove that tissue and prevent the condition from spreading.

Loss of sensitivity

It is common for patients to experience some temporary loss of sensitivity in the abdomen region during the healing process; and although far less frequent, some patients have experienced a permanent loss of sensation.

Excessive scarring (internal or external)

In rare cases, tummy tuck patients experience extensive scarring following the procedure. In cases of excessive internal scarring, additional treatment might be required.

If you reside in or around Washington DC and Northern Virginia and would like to discuss tummy tuck risks, Dr. Desman is available for a free consultation , and he can answer any questions you might have.

Call 703-924-3144 to schedule a free in-office consultation or to set up a free telephone consultation.

Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality cosmetic surgery care in the Northern Virginia and Washington DC region. Dr. Desman is committed to serving you through advanced training, dedication to perfection and unmatched personal care.