What are the Risks Associated with Tummy Tucks

By Dr. Surjit Rai

All surgeries carry some risks. However, the risks associated with tummy tucks are minimal and, for healthy patients, the benefits outweigh the risks. Some patients have a higher risk of complications due to preexisting medical conditions. You can minimize your risk of complications by closely following the pre-op and post-op instructions Dallas plastic surgeon Vasdev Rai will give you well in advance of your tummy tuck procedure.

Potential Complications from Tummy Tuck Surgery

Tummy tuck complications are rare when the tummy tuck is performed by a highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Rai, and the patient is a good candidate for surgery. Potential complications include:

• Standard risks of anesthesia
• Infection
• Hematoma (blood accumulation)
• Seroma (fluid accumulation)
• Unfavorable scarring
• Skin discoloration
• Asymmetry
• Blood clots
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Numbness
• Changes in sensation
• Nerve damage
• Poor wound healing
• Skin loss
• Fat necrosis

Ideal Candidates

Good candidates for tummy tucks have minimal risk for complications. Your underlying health, lifestyle, and ability and willingness to follow instructions are the main factors which determine your risk. Ideal candidates possess the following qualities:

• Nonsmokers
• In good overall health
• Realistic expectations
• Understand the complications and risks of tummy tuck
• Prepare in advance for surgery and recovery period
• Will follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions, without exception

A tummy tuck is a very rewarding procedure with minimal risks in most circumstances. To learn more, and find out if an abdominoplasty is the right procedure for you, please email to schedule a comprehensive consultation with Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Vasdev Rai.