When performed by a highly skilled and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Singh, abdominoplasty is considered to be a safe and low-risk procedure.
That being said, tummy tuck complications are possible, and it’s important for patients to be fully-aware of any potential side effects.

8 Potential Tummy Tuck Complications

1. Swelling
Swelling is a one of the most common tummy tuck complications and gradually subsides over the next 2-3 months.
Patients may infrequently experience prolonged swelling.
2. Asymmetry
Following a tummy tuck, it is not unusual to notice a certain amount of asymmetry in the abdominal wall and around the scar. It usually improves as swelling resolves.
3. Hematoma and Bleeding
Drains are inserted during a tummy tuck to collect blood and other fluid. If you experience a hematoma (collection of blood under the skin), your drain output is likely to increase.
Patients should report significant bleeding to their plastic surgeon immediately, as it may necessitate surgical repair and evacuation.
4. Seroma
A seroma occurs when fluid accumulates beneath the skin. Patients can reduce their risk for this side effect and other tummy tuck complications by wearing their compression garment as directed.
5. Pain
Post-procedure pain is often described as a soreness or tenderness and feels like you recently performed a number of crunches or sit-ups. Most patients find the discomfort subsides within 48 hours.
6. Numbness
After a tummy tuck, the abdominal wall may feel numb for several months. While sensitivity usually returns, numbness can sometimes be persistent.
7. Scarring
Prior to undergoing abdominoplasty, patients are informed that they will have a visible scar on the lower abdomen. Although it will significantly fade with time and scar treatment, it will never go away completely.
8. Infection
Infection is among the rarest tummy tuck complications, as patients are treated with prophylactic oral antibiotics before surgery and IV antibiotics during the procedure.

Considering a Tummy Tuck?

If you are considering a tummy tuck, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Navin Singh.