Is it safe to undergo lipo and a tummy tuck after a period of extended fasting?

Question

I usually eat a ketogenic diet but I have been using extended fasting to lose a large amount of excess body fat and have been successful. I only consume vitamins, electrolytes, and water daily. I know that some doctors have a problem with this and others are on board. This makes me hesitant to mention it. Is it dangerous to undergo major surgery like a tummy tuck or liposuction after an extended fast? If so, how long should I be back on my regular diet before undergoing any surgery?

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

My concern would be wound healing.  Wound healing is dependent on vitamins, minerals and protein.  If your body is not getting the appropriate nutrients and protein you could have major issues in wound healing.  After a tummy tuck, you would not want an issues with healing given the larger incision.I would also want my patient at a stable weight prior to a tummy tuck procedure.  Therefore, I would not recommend losing significant amounts of weight if my patient is not able to maintain that weight after surgery.  The key is to be able to maintain the weight with a continued health lifestyle.Hope that helps.

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. A balanced diet is required to be able to heal the surgical wounds. You should inform your plastic surgeon about this. Best,

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear zoieheart,
most plastic surgeons won't be ready to do major surgeries like tummy tuck on a patient that only takes vitamins, minerals and water. Human body needs a well balanced diet that consists of protein, carbs, fat and other nutrients. Lack of proteins in your diet might cause severe wound healing issues. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

It is really important that you discuss your diet with your surgeon and anesthesiolgist for your safety. You need to be getting enough protein and other nutrients to aid in your healing. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  It is not wise to undergo surgery of any kind following a prolonged fasting episode as your body will not have the essential building blocks with which to heal from.  This is especially true with procedures like a tummy tuck that involve creation of a skin flap.  I would recommend reaching your goal weight and then incorporate a balanced diet of lean protein, complex carbohydrates, and essential fats for at least 3-4 weeks before entertaining a procedure. It will lead to a more predictable, safer recovery.  Hope this helps.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This type of thing hinders nutritional support prior to surgery, and I would not recommend it.  In addition, if the individual ingredients are unstudied or shown to produce side effects, these things should be discontinued.   Tell your plastic surgeon and anesthesiologist as their pre-operative and post operative protocol may vary from mine.To support recovery, eat more high-quality proteins and complex carbohydrates before and after surgery.   I recommend that my patient take 100 grams of protein (protein shakes work well) per day in the healing phase for the first 6 weeks after surgery.  Carbohydrate-loading before surgery can help reduce hunger, thirst and anxiety before surgery and even nausea, vomiting, and pain.  It can also prevent short-term insulin resistance.

John Rosdeutscher, MD · Answer

My answer would be a simple “no”. Despite the cute nickname tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a big deal & huge metabolic hit to your body. Recovery & healing require a positive nitrogen balance so more than adequate nutrition is needed. Fast some other time & help your body recover/heal appropriately!

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is not a good idea to have big surgery like this after prolonged fasting as it may affect healing.Please consult with a board certified PS for evaluation.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

No, I do not think it is a good idea to proceed with extensive surgery after extended fasting. You will want to be "nutritionally optimized" (including adequate protein intake) prior to proceeding. I would also suggest that you be very honest and mention your current diet with your selected plastic surgeon.

Best wishes.

Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is best if you eat a balanced healthy diet and are at a stable weight before proceeding with a tummy tuck.  Your body will need proper nutrition to help in healing from this procedure.  As opinions vary, I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about what is best for you based on your surgical plan.

Is it safe to undergo lipo and a tummy tuck after a period of extended fasting?

Answers (11)

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