Our Summary

This research paper discusses a new model for studying scars, the Northwestern Abdominoplasty Scar Model, which was proposed in 2016. Current methods for studying scars often fall short - animal models don’t perfectly match human scarring, and human models face issues like difficulty in finding participants, ethical concerns around creating wounds on purpose, and variability in scars due to factors like location and individual responses.

The Northwestern Abdominoplasty Scar Model overcomes many of these issues. It more accurately represents human scarring and requires fewer participants. It allows for more flexibility in the types and numbers of treatments that can be studied at the same time. However, it still has a few limitations and more research is needed to compare it with existing models, to encourage more widespread acceptance of a standard human scar model.

The hope is that the Northwestern Abdominoplasty Scar Model will inspire other models that use elective surgery (surgery that is chosen by the patient and not urgently needed), to overcome issues around finding participants and ethical concerns. This would be a significant step towards better human scar models.

FAQs

  1. What is the Northwestern Abdominoplasty Scar Model?
  2. What are the advantages of the Northwestern Abdominoplasty Scar Model over current methods for studying scars?
  3. What further research is needed in relation to the Northwestern Abdominoplasty Scar Model?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about abdominoplasty is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and minimize scarring. This may include keeping the incision site clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activities, wearing compression garments as recommended, and attending follow-up appointments with the surgeon. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help optimize results and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, are those who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area that does not respond to diet and exercise. This procedure is commonly recommended for patients who have undergone significant weight loss, women who have had multiple pregnancies, or individuals who have loose skin due to aging.

Other patients who may benefit from abdominoplasty include those who have abdominal muscles that have become separated or weakened, causing a protruding abdomen. This condition, known as diastasis recti, can be corrected during abdominoplasty surgery.

Overall, abdominoplasty is recommended for patients who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure, and are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle after surgery to ensure long-lasting results. It is important for patients to discuss their goals and concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if abdominoplasty is the right option for them.

Timeline

Before abdominoplasty:

  1. Patient consults with plastic surgeon to discuss goals and expectations of the procedure.
  2. Patient undergoes pre-operative evaluation and medical clearance.
  3. Patient receives instructions on pre-operative care, including avoiding certain medications and preparing for recovery.
  4. Patient undergoes abdominoplasty surgery, which typically takes 2-4 hours.
  5. Patient is monitored in the recovery room before being discharged home.

After abdominoplasty:

  1. Patient experiences pain, swelling, and bruising in the abdominal area, which can be managed with pain medication.
  2. Patient is instructed on post-operative care, including wearing a compression garment and avoiding strenuous activities.
  3. Patient attends follow-up appointments with the plastic surgeon to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
  4. Over the following weeks and months, the scar from the abdominoplasty begins to fade and flatten.
  5. Patient may undergo scar treatments such as silicone sheets, laser therapy, or steroid injections to further improve the appearance of the scar.
  6. Patient enjoys the final results of abdominoplasty, with a flatter and more toned abdomen.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with abdominoplasty?
  2. How long is the recovery period and what can I expect during the recovery process?
  3. Will there be scarring after the surgery and how can I minimize the appearance of scars?
  4. How long will the results of the abdominoplasty last?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that may achieve similar results?
  6. How many abdominoplasty procedures have you performed and what is your success rate?
  7. Can you provide before and after photos of previous abdominoplasty patients?
  8. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or follow a specific diet and exercise plan after the surgery?
  9. How much pain or discomfort can I expect during and after the procedure, and how will it be managed?
  10. What are the qualifications and experience of the rest of the surgical team who will be assisting with the abdominoplasty?

Reference

Authors: Hsieh JC, Joshi CJ, Wan R, Galiano RD. Journal: Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle). 2020 Jul;9(7):396-404. doi: 10.1089/wound.2018.0900. Epub 2020 Apr 29. PMID: 32320363