Would I be able to get a tummy tuck if I have multiple sclerosis?

Hello prettynei. Thank you for your question regarding undergoing a tummy tuck with a history of multiple sclerosis (MS).

Your situation is quite common, and it's understandable that you want to explore your options for a tummy tuck. Since you’ve been stable for over a year without flare-ups, and you have clearance from your primary care physician and neurologist, you may indeed be a candidate for the procedure. However, some surgeons may be cautious due to the potential risks associated with MS, such as increased sensitivity to stress and the possibility of exacerbating symptoms postoperatively.

The key here is to find a plastic surgeon who is experienced and comfortable working with patients with MS. It's essential that the surgeon thoroughly understands your specific condition and how it has been managed, as well as any potential complications that could arise during or after surgery.

The fact that some places have turned you down could be due to a variety of reasons, such as the facility’s policies or the surgeon's personal experience and comfort level with MS patients. Don't be discouraged—keep looking for a surgeon who is willing to work closely with your medical team to ensure the safest possible outcome.

It’s also important to consider that surgery can be a stressor on the body, and while you’ve been stable, the stress of surgery could potentially trigger a flare-up. Therefore, having a strong support system and a comprehensive post-operative plan in place is crucial.

In summary, while having multiple sclerosis might make some surgeons hesitant, with careful planning, collaboration with your medical team, and finding the right surgeon, it is possible to undergo a tummy tuck. I wish you the best of luck in your journey.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects the central nervous system. When considering any surgical procedure, including a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), it's essential to consider the potential impact of MS on the surgical process and recovery.

Here are some considerations:

Physical limitations: Depending on the severity and progression of MS symptoms, individuals may experience physical limitations that could affect their ability to undergo surgery and recover from it. These limitations may include muscle weakness, fatigue, balance issues, and mobility challenges.

Immune function: MS is an autoimmune condition, and individuals with autoimmune conditions may have altered immune function. This can affect how the body responds to surgery and wound healing. It's essential to discuss your medical history, including your MS diagnosis, with your surgeon to ensure they have a comprehensive understanding of your health status.

Medications: Many individuals with MS are on medications to manage their symptoms and disease progression. Some medications may affect the body's response to surgery, anesthesia, and wound healing. It's crucial to inform your surgeon about all medications you are taking, including those for MS, so they can make informed decisions about your surgical plan and post-operative care.

Potential exacerbation of MS symptoms: Surgery and anesthesia can sometimes trigger exacerbations of MS symptoms in susceptible individuals. It's essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of surgery with your healthcare team, including your neurologist or healthcare provider managing your MS.

Individual assessment: Ultimately, the decision to undergo a tummy tuck or any surgical procedure should be made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account your specific medical history, current health status, and the recommendations of your healthcare providers.

Before undergoing any surgical procedure, it's crucial to have a thorough discussion with both your plastic surgeon and your neurologist or healthcare provider managing your MS. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your individual situation and medical history, and help you make an informed decision about the best course of action for your health and well-being.

Thank you for your question and sorry to learn of your diagnosis. A evaluation by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon in person would be required to properly determine how to best advise you. Flare ups in MS are not predictable but surgery, anesthesia, and recovery certainly represent a challenge to the body and the immune system. A decision to undergo surgery should be in coordination between your plastic surgeon, family doctor and neurologist. Best of luck to you. Consult with your doctors first, and if they feel it is possible, find a board certified plastic surgeon whose results and reviews appeal to you. Best of luck to you.

Thank you for sharing your excellent question. yes it is possible to have a tummy tuck assuming your health conditions are medically optimized. I would continue to seek out in-person consultations as it is the best way to ensure your safety and anticipated outcomes. Hope this helps.

If your primary physician and your neurologist give medical clearance, then you should be able to have surgery. I have done elective procedures on those with MS and they did very well. do remember that surgery is a stress and it may flair up your symptoms.

If your symptoms are minimal and you have received clearance from your neurologist you may be able to have a tummy tuck. A surgery like a tummy tuck may lead to a flare up in your MS, so that must be a consideration. There may be other requirements put in place for your safety. Visit with a few board certified plastic surgeons near you to learn more.

Absolutely!

The key is your general health and severity of your multiple sclerosis symptoms. I personally have raised close to $300,000 for the multiple sclerosis Society through their bicycle rides. This brought about some recognition among patients with multiple sclerosis and therefore several patients to me for tummy tucks from this group. The most recent was last week.

So long as you’re able to carry out normal activities with minimal symptoms after having neurological clearance, one could proceed.

Good luck.

Ultimately, you’ll need to find a plastic surgeon willing to do the procedure.
Each plastic surgeon will make their own decisions in regards to what they feel is or is not appropriate.
I generally always recommend patient schedule multiple consultations before selecting a provider.
How many consultations have you had so far?
I generally do not recommend people rely on virtual consultations for any type of plastic surgery. Procedure when possible.
Scheduling person consultations with providers in your community and see what each provider has to say.
Bring medical clearance forms from your neurologist.
In the end plastic surgeons have to be agreeable , and generally there should be a good explanation if you are otherwise a solid candidates.
It’s also important to make sure that this is done as a team approach and your neurologist should be available to manage any potential flareups or medication changes that may or may not be needed During your recovery phase.
The best you can do is consult with more providers as see what each of them has to say.
It’s also important to confirm that you’re a good candidate for the procedure in the first place.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD