Tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic surgery at Crantford Costa Plastic Surgery in Charleston. It can help improve the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscles. Like any surgical procedure, abdominoplasty can be associated with significant postoperative pain, discomfort, and the need for postoperative pain management. Exparel®, a long-acting local anesthetic, is an effective tool we employ to help manage pain after abdominoplasty.
What Is Exparel?
Exparel (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) is a liposomal formulation of bupivacaine, a local anesthetic that has been used for decades in the management of acute pain. The liposomal formulation allows for a slow and sustained release of the medication, which can provide long-lasting pain relief. Exparel has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in a variety of surgical procedures, including abdominoplasty.
Exparel Benefits for Postoperative Pain
The use of Exparel in abdominoplasty has been shown to reduce postoperative pain and the need for opioids after surgery. In a study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, researchers found that patients who received Exparel during abdominoplasty had significantly lower pain scores at 24 and 48 hours postoperatively, compared to patients who did not receive the medication. Additionally, patients who received Exparel required significantly fewer opioids to manage their pain during the first 72 hours after surgery.
Long-Lasting Pain Relief
One of the benefits of using Exparel in abdominoplasty is that it can provide long-lasting pain relief. In a study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, researchers found that patients who received Exparel during tummy tuck surgery reported significantly lower pain scores at one, two, and three days after surgery, compared to patients who did not receive the medication. Furthermore, the pain scores of patients who received Exparel remained lower than those of patients who did not receive the medication up to 72 hours after surgery.
Reduce the Need for Opiods
Exparel can also help reduce the need for opioids, which can be associated with a range of side effects, including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, sedation, and constipation. In a study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, researchers found that patients who received Exparel during abdominoplasty required significantly fewer opioids to manage their pain during the first 72 hours after surgery, compared to patients who did not receive the medication. In addition, patients who received Exparel reported significantly fewer side effects associated with opioid use, such as nausea and vomiting.
Improve Surgical Recovery
The use of Exparel in abdominoplasty can also improve the patient’s overall experience after surgery. Pain and discomfort can be a significant barrier to recovery, and by reducing pain and the need for opioids, patients may be able to return to their normal activities more quickly. In a study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, researchers found that patients who received Exparel during abdominoplasty reported a higher overall satisfaction with their postoperative pain management compared to patients who did not receive the medication.
Exparel Risks and Side Effects
It is important to note that the use of Exparel in abdominoplasty is not without potential risks and side effects. As with any medication, Exparel can cause adverse reactions, including allergic reactions, fever, and infection. In addition, the medication can cause numbness or weakness in the area where it is injected, which can be a concern for some patients. The use of Exparel should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider, and the potential benefits and risks should be carefully weighed.
If you are interested in learning about tummy tuck surgery and how Exparel can reduce your post-operative pain so you can return to normal activities more quickly, request a consultation or call (843) 722-5904 Crantford Costa Plastic Surgery to schedule an appointment today.
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