All plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures come with risks and potential complications. To ensure successful surgery, it is crucial to understand and minimise these risks. Whilst all measures are taken to mitigate risks, some risks are unavoidable.
All information on this page is general in nature – your Specialist Plastic Surgeon will discuss the specific risks and complications pertinent to your individual surgical procedure during your consultation. General risks for surgery are listed here.
Specific risks related to abdominoplasty surgery include, but are not limited to:
- Fat necrosis: This is a rare complication that can occur when fatty tissue dies. It can cause hard lumps under the skin, but it is usually not a serious problem.
- Restricted movement: Tightened skin after abdominoplasty can make bending forward and certain movements more challenging.
- Skin graft: There is a risk of skin that does not heal and may require a skin graft. This risk is rare, but it is important to be aware of it before undergoing surgery.
- Blood loss: In rare cases of significant blood loss during surgery, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
- Nausea: Nausea is a common side effect, often caused by anaesthesia, but it typically resolves quickly after surgery.