subject: Tummy Tuck: Know The Possible Recovery Time Problems [print this page] The tummy tuck procedure is also called as an abdominoplasty. For various reasons, the abdominal skin, muscles and fascia in one's midsection can become stretched out and unattractive. Pregnancy and weight fluctuations are often the culprits, not to mention aging skin which has lost its elasticity.
The entire inner girdle of rectus muscles, another name for the stomach muscles, can become stretched out. This inner girdle is what holds all the internal organs in position. A sleek midsection needs both removal of the outer folds of skin, and a tightening of the inner girdle, as well.
This surgery is done by a plastic surgeon and takes several hours to perform. It is done in a hospital and usually requires a one or two night stay. The area that is focused on is the skin between the pubic bone and the navel. There will be an incision horizontally from one hip to the other directly above the pubic region. The navel will most likely need to be repositioned into the appropriate location during the surgery.
Drains will be placed during the surgery in order to remove the fluid that collects. At times the drains will be left for several weeks and the patient will need to learn how to empty them. A compression garment will be worn initially that will both support the healing area and constrict it to reduce the amount of fluid collected.
As with any surgical procedure, there are occasionally risks and complications. Individual healing responses will differ depending on the person. At times, excess fluid may not have drained adequately and the physician may need to extract it using a syringe.
Other problems that might occur include infection, hematoma, which is the collection of blood under the skin's surface, and numbness and tingling in the abdomen area. Smoking has been proven to hinder the healing process so it would be wise to quit well before the surgery. If one has diabetes or obesity issues, complications with healing are more likely to occur.
When healing from an abdominoplasty, it is important for the patient to strictly follow the surgeon's instructions. Taking it easy, getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of water and adhering to a healthy diet will all aid in an easier recovery. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be curtailed until the physician gives his or her okay. Walking around the block and other mild exercises, however, will both aid in recovery and encourage the patient's mood.
