A study recently published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal looked into new ways to complete a tummy tuck procedure by using progressive tension sutures (PTS). If this becomes more common, patients will not have to deal with surgical drains after their procedure.
A tummy tuck procedure is a surgery in which the surgeon removes extra saggy skin that has developed because of rapid weight loss or pregnancy. It also helps to tighten the muscles around the abdominal wall to show off a smooth and flat stomach. However, the procedure itself can be quite extensive and requires a few weeks recovery time. This new method may reduce this time spent waiting for the scars to heal.
"Collection of fluid, also known as seroma, is one of, if not the most frustrating problem that plagues abdominoplasty," said a Texas-based plastic surgeon and the study's author. "Our technique sews the tissue back together, closing the space, and leaving no room for fluid to accumulate. More importantly, progressive tension sutures (PTS) hold tissue together with abdominal movement during the healing process. The need for drains is eliminated, which speeds recovery, decreases cost and improves scarring."
This would also make the recovery process much easier for the patient, and allow them to get back to their everyday lives more quickly.
"A woman can move around upright without fear of disrupting the surgical area. She doesn't have to resort to extended bed rest and limited movement, as many surgeons advise to avoid these problems," the plastic surgeon added.
Tummy tucks are increasing in popularity as of late. The surge of "Mommy Makeovers" is one of the reasons why this procedure has seen such a spike. Women are trying to get their pre-pregnancy bodies back with a tummy tuck, liposuction and often a breast lift or augmentation, and more moms are going under the knife.
According to the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, before an individual goes opts for cosmetic surgery, they need to be fully prepared for what the tummy tuck recovery and the procedure entails. This way, they have a better chance of receiving the results they set out for. As long as the patient communicates their needs with their surgeon as well as educates themselves about the procedure, he or she can work toward their desired result.
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