Our Summary

This research paper examines the quality of information available on the internet for patients who have undergone weight loss surgery and are considering further surgeries to reshape their bodies, such as tummy tucks, breast lifts, arm lifts, and thigh lifts. The researchers used Google and Yahoo to search for relevant information and evaluated the quality of the first 50 results for each surgery using the expanded EQIP scale, a measure of information quality.

They found that the information available online is seriously lacking. There is not enough information about the potential risks and side-effects of these surgeries, how to deal with complications, warning signs for patients, and precautions patients can take. The information about what happens during the surgery, the benefits and risks, and the potential impact on quality of life after the surgery was also poor. Often, no other sources of information were provided.

Therefore, the researchers conclude that due to the unreliable and insufficient information available online, healthcare professionals should take it upon themselves to communicate effectively with their patients about these surgeries.

FAQs

  1. What is the quality of information available online for patients considering body reshaping surgeries after weight loss?
  2. What kind of information about tummy tucks and other body reshaping surgeries is lacking online?
  3. What is the recommended course of action for healthcare professionals given the lack of reliable information online about these types of surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tummy tuck surgery is to carefully follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. This can help minimize the risk of complications and promote proper healing. It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to ensure long-lasting results from the surgery. Additionally, it is important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery and to openly communicate any concerns or questions with the healthcare team.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, are those who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area that cannot be improved through diet and exercise alone. This includes patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and have loose, sagging skin, as well as women who have had multiple pregnancies and have stretched abdominal muscles.

Other candidates for a tummy tuck may include individuals who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area due to aging or genetics. It is important for patients to be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery.

Patients who are not good candidates for a tummy tuck may include those who are significantly overweight or have certain medical conditions that could increase the risks of surgery. It is important for individuals considering a tummy tuck to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a suitable candidate for the procedure.

Timeline

Before the tummy tuck surgery:

  • Patient consults with a plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations
  • Patient undergoes a physical examination and medical history review to determine if they are a candidate for the surgery
  • Pre-operative instructions are given, including guidelines on diet, medications, and smoking cessation
  • Patient may need to undergo pre-operative tests such as blood work and imaging studies
  • Patient signs consent forms and discusses anesthesia options

After the tummy tuck surgery:

  • Patient is monitored in the recovery room and then discharged home with post-operative instructions
  • Patient may experience pain, swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery
  • Patient is advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a certain period of time
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and address any concerns
  • Patient may need to wear compression garments to support the healing process
  • Patient gradually resumes normal activities and starts to see the results of the surgery over time
  • Patient may need to make lifestyle changes to maintain the results of the surgery

Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after a tummy tuck surgery involves careful preparation, monitoring, and recovery to achieve the desired outcome. It is important for patients to be well-informed about the surgery and to follow post-operative instructions to ensure a successful outcome.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about a tummy tuck include:

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a tummy tuck?
  2. How should I prepare for the surgery, both physically and mentally?
  3. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  4. How long is the recovery period, and what can I expect during this time?
  5. Will there be scarring after the surgery, and how can I minimize it?
  6. What are the expected results of the tummy tuck, and how long will they last?
  7. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results?
  8. How experienced are you in performing tummy tucks, and what is your success rate?
  9. Can you provide before and after photos of previous tummy tuck patients?
  10. What post-operative care instructions should I follow to ensure a successful outcome?

Reference

Authors: Lo Torto F, Marcasciano M, Frattaroli JM, Kaciulyte J, Mori FLR, Redi U, Casella D, Cigna E, Ribuffo D. Journal: Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2020 Jun;44(3):839-846. doi: 10.1007/s00266-019-01535-x. Epub 2019 Nov 11. PMID: 31712871