Abdominoplasty is the aesthetic surgery of the abdomen. With this surgery you can remove excess skin and reconstruct the abdominal wall, tightening the muscles.
It’s a safe surgery with very good results. However, it’s common for patients to be afraid because they’ve heard or had someone close who had problems with wounds and scars.
To avoid these types of complications, several aspects must be taken into consideration.
The factors that most affect abdominoplasty wounds
Excessive tension kills tissues
Excessive tension and aggressive liposuction can damage the skin’s vasculature. This can produce necrosis (skin death) of the flap or dehiscences, which is the medical term for open wounds.
| Factor | Dehiscence risk | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Excessive tension | High | Conservative technique |
| Aggressive liposuction | Very high | Avoid combination |
| Smoking | Double risk | Stop 1 month before |
| Uncontrolled diabetes | High | Metabolic control |
| Obesity (BMI >34) | Very high | Reduce weight prior |
| Very tight garments | Moderate | Adequate compression |
Tobacco doubles your risk
Smoking patients have double the risk of dehiscences.
Therefore I recommend stopping smoking at least one month before surgery.
Ideally you should prepare with hyperbaric chamber.
Infections that break sutures
Infections can lead to dehiscences, which is related to operating room asepsis, surgery time and surgical technique.
A sterile environment is fundamental to avoid complications.
Metabolic control is critical
Diabetic patients or those with uncontrolled diseases should not undergo these surgeries until having adequate metabolic control and generally good health status.
Elevated glucose directly interferes with healing. Tissues cannot repair properly without adequate metabolic control.
Obesity multiplies complications
Patients with obesity BMI greater than 34, have higher risk of fat necrosis, dehiscences and healing problems.
Excess weight increases pressure on sutures.
Adipose tissues have poor irrigation, which compromises healing.
Treacherous garments in the first 48 hours
Very tight garments in the first 48 postoperative hours can damage skin circulation and produce necrosis.
Compression should be firm but allow adequate circulation.
How to avoid complications in a wound after abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasties are very safe procedures with excellent results.
To avoid these complications the main measure is choosing your surgeon well.
You should only operate with a plastic surgeon, it’s not the same as an aesthetic surgeon. Verify their credentials, so they can analyze the risk factors you have and prepare you adequately for your surgery.
Additionally, the clinic where you’re going to operate must have all permits and infrastructure regulated by the Health Department to ensure you have a safe procedure.
Remember that your health is the most important thing.
