Discomfort usually subsides within a few days, but swelling and bruising may persist for three to six months. Risks include bleeding, infection, excessive fluid loss leading to shock, fluid accumulation, injury to the skin, baggy or rippled skin, pigmentation changes and altered sensation. Some patients may need repeat procedures to remove additional tissue. The patient can return to work within three to seven days and resume more strenuous activities in two to three weeks. He should avoid exposing the operated area to the sun for at least six months to eliminate the risk of permanently altered skin pigmentation.
Improvement is permanent, barring massive weight gain or use of certain drugs.
Improvement is permanent, barring massive weight gain or use of certain drugs. Appropriate candidates for tummy tuck are men and women with large fat deposits or loose abdominal skin that does not respond to diet or exercise, and women with slack muscles and skin due to multiple pregnancies. Older patients whose skin has lost its elasticity may also find improvement. Obese patients who plan to lose weight should postpone surgery. For complete tummy tuck, the surgeon generally makes a long incision from hip to hip just above the pubic region.