MedlinePlus reports that an abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure performed to tighten stretched out abdominal muscles and skin. Abdominoplasties may be useful when diet and exercise have not been successful. During the operation, a surgeon removes fatty tissue and loose skin from the middle and lower sections of the abdomen via a horizontal incision just above the pubic area. Length of hospital stays range from one to three days.
Infection
One possible complication of an abdominoplasty is infection within the abdominal cavity or along the suture line. Patients should report increased abdominal pain or tenderness, fever, and redness or inflammation along the suture line to their physicians immediately. Infections are treated with antibiotics.
Nerve Damage
MedlinePlus reports that nerve damage may occur during an abdominoplasty. After the surgery, patients may experience pain, decreased sensation, and numbness or tingling in the abdomen or upper thighs. This complication usually resolves itself in two to three months.
Blood or Fluid Collection Under the Skin
Following an abdominoplasty, blood or serous fluid may accumulate under the skin. According to MayoClinic.com, this accumulation of fluid is the most common complication associated with abdominoplasties. Drainage tubes left in place during hospitalization help reduce the possibility of blood or fluid accumulation. If fluid accumulation is a problem once the patient is discharged from the hospital, a surgeon can remove excess fluid with a syringe during an office visit.
Tissue Death
MayoClinic.com reports that tissue death may occur along the incision line after an abdominoplasty. This complication may prolong the hospital stay and overall healing process after an abdominoplasty. Risk factors for post-operative tissue death include obesity, smoking and diabetes.
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