Will moderate lymphodema jeopardise lipo or mini tummy tuck?

I would like to consider having the right procedure to remove belly fat. Since having a hysterectomy over 5 years ago I was left with an overhanging belly which I'd like to have removed. However, is having moderate lymphodema following breast cancer 7 years ago going to jeopardise any liposuction or mini tummy tuck procedures?

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8 answers to “Will moderate lymphodema jeopardise...”

A: Abdominal procedures following breast cancer treatment

Otto Joseph Placik, MD

As long as you have not had any TRAM Flap procedures or regional radiation therapy. lymphedema of the arm following breast cancer treatment should not interfere with abdominal liposuction or mini-tummy tuck procedures.

A: Lymphedema and Tummy tuck

Theodore Katz, MD

If your lymphedema is strictly due to the surgical procedure as a post operative sequelae and there is no evidence of recurrent disease, and your general health is good otherwise, your risks should not be increased by the presence of the lymphedema.  Of course, any intravenous lines should be placed into... more

A: Lymphedema is a well described consequence of the breast surgery

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD

Dear Jay Jay Typically, a lymph node dissection is performed with many types of breast cancer surgery to facilitate staging of the cancer. The number of lymph node that are positive or negative for containing breast cancer relate to the long term prognosis. The removal and disruption of the lymphatic drainage... more

A: It all depends on your lymphodema

David Shafer, MD

 Where is your lymphodema?  In your arms?  In her abdomen?  If it is in the areas to be operating on, it may lead to healing difficulties.  However, if you are just having liposuction, it should be fine.  However, you should discuss all this with your doctors prior to surgery.

A: I Would Expect No Major Problems

John LoMonaco, MD

As already stated, I think other than the usual swelling all patients have after surgery, you will be fine.  Lymphatic massage after surgery and a compression garment (if you ever wore one) may behelpful during recovery if your arm swells. 

A: Lymphedema and liposuction/ tummy tuck

Steven Wallach, MD

 The lymphedema that you developed in your arm as a result of breast cancer surgery should in now way affect liposuction of your abdomen or your tummy tuck.

A: Moderate lymphodema and liposuction or mini tummy tuck

Peter A. Aldea, MD

Dear Jay-Jay, 2 key questions to consider; First, WHERE is the lymphedema (arm(s), or lower abdomen)? and What is the status of your breast cancer and opposite breast? If the abdomen is NOT involved by the lymphedema, I would still not rush in and do liposuction or a tummy tuck UNLESS I was certain that this... more

A: Belly fat may come in handy

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Jay-Jay, Before doing anything have a consultation with a local board certified plastic surgeon and a discussion with your breast/general surgeon.  The presence of lymphedema in your arm will not affect the ability to perform abdominal liposuction or a tummy tuck and vice versa.  However, the fact... more

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