After major weight loss, with a drastic reduction in abdominal fat, the so-called “coat abdomen” occurs, characterized by an excess of pendular skin below the navel. Due to the great stretching of the skin during the period of obesity, the skin loses part of its elasticity so as not to retract enough.

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RECOMMENDATION

The abdominoplasty or dermolipectomy is a surgery to reshape the abdomen, removing excess skin and fat, especially from the navel downwards. It's the ideal time to repair the rectus abdominis muscles that, because of bearing so much weight or after pregnancy, have become open and weak. Remember that this surgery is not about losing weight, but about reshaping the abdomen.

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TYPE OF ANESTHESIA

Epidural anesthesia or general anesthesia may be performed.

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ADMISSION TIME

Generally 24 to 48 hours. as indicated by the surgeon

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POSTOPERATIVE

The patient will have two drains for a few days to remove the fluid that accumulates after surgery. These drains will be removed as directed by the surgeon.

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You should avoid physical exertion and try to remain in a semi-flexed position for 15 days to avoid strain on the scar. Physical exercise should be avoided for at least 1 month. The use of an abdominal elastic strap will be for 2 months or for the period indicated by the surgeon.

Manual lymphatic drainage sessions are performed from the tenth day after surgery, in order to avoid local fluid accumulation, improve edema and internal healing. In this case, it is extremely important that a person trained and used to recovering in plastic surgery. The use of ultrasound can be performed 21 days after the operation. The use of elastic stockings is required for 15 days.

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Healing goes through different phases, and may become red for a few months, with a tendency to lighten in the sixth month, always depending on the type of skin. Remember that in this type of surgery, scars can be larger and in the shape of an anchor, with the possibility of stretching and hypertrophy.

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COMPLICATIONS

Among the possible complications, we can mention: hematomas, seromas, infection, necrosis (skin suffering), dehiscence (opening of the suture), keloids, thrombosis, embolism, anesthetic problems.

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Remember that patients who smoke are more at risk of complications, so it is advisable to stop smoking a month early to minimize the risk. In the case of oral contraceptives, it is advisable to stop taking them for a month before surgery, during which time another contraceptive method must be used.

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DEFINITIVE RESULT

The final result is obtained after 6 months of surgery, a period during which the tissues adjust and the scar matures.