An abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) is usually a very safe procedure and will generally be well worth the cosmetic surgery costs. However, a more serious tummy tuck scar may result in situations where the initial guidelines, set down by the doctor, are not followed carefully by the patient. If these instructions are followed, then the patient will reduce the chances of complications from surgery.
Some of the most serious abdominoplasty risks are encountered by smokers. One of the best ways to avoid a serious tummy tuck scar is to quit smoking at least two weeks prior to the procedure. After that, smoking is to be avoided for at least two weeks after the procedure, as well
This instruction is designed to avoid complications to the abdominoplasty healing process. However, a pronounced tummy tuck scar and other complications can also be caused by too strict of a diet or over-exposure of the surgery area to the sun prior to the tummy tuck procedure.
Over-exposure to the sun can have the effect of drying the skin, which may lead to the chances of a more serious tummy tuck scar subsequent to the abdominoplasty. The tummy tuck incisions are actually a controlled form of surgical damage to the body and it can have a negative effect on healing.
An abdominoplasty will heal much faster with a far less chance of an overly prominent tummy tuck scar, if the doctor’s pre- and post-op instructions are followed exactly as they are given. Quit smoking for the specified times and be sure to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet prior to the procedure. Get plenty of sleep, as well.
If you feel sick on the day of the abdominoplasty – tell your doctor. The key to less chance of a bad tummy tuck scar is good health!
