Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty is more popularly known by its slang name, tummy tuck. This is one of the top three most popular cosmetic surgeries performed in the world today. This surgery is performed by a special kind of plastic surgeon known as a bariatric surgeon. Following is a brief description about abdominoplasty including the risks involved in this procedure.
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Abdominoplasty – How is it done?
- The first step is to make the incisions in the right places. One incision is made in the small place around the navel so that it is freed from the neighboring skin. The second incision is a longer incision that runs from the hip to the pubic region.
- Once the incisions are made, the skin is slowly loosened from the muscular wall of the abdomen. The muscles are now exposed. In case the muscles are loose, they are tautened with stitches.
- This leaves the sagging skin of the abdomen and the fatty layers to be tightened. The skin is tightened and the fat is removed by liposuction. Liposuction involves making incisions in the abdomen and removing the fat by dissolving and sucking it out of the body.
- Abdominoplasty pays great attention to the navel. The navel is usually pushed outward from the abdomen because of the pressure from the underlying fat. This connection is removed and the navel is repositioned on the new tauter and firmer abdomen. This is what brings the lean abdomen look more than anything else.
- If any excess liquid remains in the abdomen, it is drained out.
Abdominoplasty – What are the Costs?
The costs of abdominoplasty depend on factors such as the reputation of the hospital and the plastic surgeon that performs it, the geographical location (this surgery is more expensive in a developed country), the extent of the abdominoplasty that needs to be performed and so on. With all these points taken into consideration, the costs of the procedure can start from $5,000 and go on up to $20,000.
It must be remembered that tummy tuck is classified as a cosmetic surgery and as such it is not covered by insurance.
Abdominoplasty – What are the Risks involved?
Like with any cosmetic plastic surgery, there are risks involved with abdominoplasty too. The problem of scarring after the surgery is very real, especially if the procedure is not done by an experienced plastic surgeon. Improper procedures might cause the abdomen to retain some tissues or fats in unwanted places giving a deformed look. Corrective surgeries may be needed too, which will increase the cost.
