The procedure combining liposuction with a ‘tummy tuck,’ known as abdominoplasty, (hence, the combined operation is known as lipoabdominoplasty) has been around for quite some time although very few well-designed studies have been put forth to find out the results of this combined procedure. As a result, very little statistics exist on patient safety and customer satisfaction from lipoabdominoplasty. At first look, it seems that combining both liposuction and tummy tuck can either result to better cosmetic outcomes but compromised patient safety, or higher patient safety but lower customer satisfaction on the results.
Detailed analysis of certain practices, however, reveals that certain procedures could minimize health risks while at the same maximize patients’ satisfaction of cosmetic results.
Decreased Incidence Of Seroma
In a typical tummy tuck, fluids can collect under the skin, a condition known as seroma. To minimize this occurrence, plastic surgeons may retain some abdominal fat and connective tissue which could reduce the risk to the patient but compromise the cosmetic outcome.
In the combined procedure, patients first undergo liposuction so excess fat from abdomen and love handles can be removed using sound energy that breaks up fatty tissue while retaining tissues crucial to the functioning of that area. After the liquefied fat is suctioned off the abdomen, the patient then undergoes tummy tuck.
Reduced Patient Recovery Periods
From an depth study of this combined procedure, shorter periods of ultrasound and elimination of the use of electrodissection during surgery reduces the risk of seromas while at the same time achieves cosmetic goals of the patient. The practice involves injecting the tissues with a solution containing epinephrine so patient blood loss is minimized and reducing the need for cautery dissection.
To reduce the risk of blood clots in the legs, certain practices yield better outcomes, according to the study. This may involve using a modified form of general anesthesia that removes the necessity to use blood thinners. The immediate results are shorter patient recovery periods and less nausea.
Less Visible Scar
As to the cosmetic outcome, a technique known as deep tissue anchoring is carried out to keep the tummy tuck scar within the bikini area. After all, this is what really most patients want to achieve, and getting this desirable result without putting them under unnecessary risks spell higher customer satisfaction.
Not everyone, of course, qualifies for lipoabdominoplasty, or even liposuction. Discuss with your plastic surgeon your options and the safest methods that your state of health would allow. While cosmetic surgery’s aim is aesthetics, it is nonetheless surgery and requires careful evaluation by the plastic surgeon.