Just diagnosed with Diverticulitis. Should I still have my Tummy Tuck done?

Question

I am scheduled for a Tummy Tuck in the Summer. Should I still have my TT done?

Shain A. Cuber, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  As long as your doctor gives you clearance for surgery there should be no problem.  If you are healthy and not having any other issues it would be fine to undergo a Tummy tuck.  Always consult your plastic surgeon for his input on the situation too.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Assuming that it's under control, it should not be an issue. Speak with your surgeon and let him or her know about your condition and proceed accordingly. My best,Dr. Sheila Nazarian@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Assuming your diverticulitis can be treated and medically optimized it will not prevent you from having a tummy tuck performed.  You would not be eligible if you were having an acute flare around the time of your scheduled abdominoplasty, but with a recent diagnosis you should have enough time to control your symptoms. Best wishes!

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

It is important to consider all medical conditions prior to having cosmetic surgery. Your condition should not be a contraindication. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon and ask that surgeon to consult with your gastroenterologist. Good Luck

Reps B. Sundin, MD · Answer

It is good that you are being proactive and safe about your current
diagnosis.In regard to your question
about the tummy tuck, I would say that as long as the diverticulitis is not
actively inflamed, it should not be a problem.However, I do suggest that you get clearance for the tummy tuck surgery
by your treating physician.I would also
recommend a stool softening regimen after surgery just to ensure to avoid
constipation and further pain.I hope
this helps.

Burton M. Sundin, MD · Answer

In theory, as long as your diverticulitis is not actively inflamed
at the time of the procedure, you should be able to undergo a tummy tuck
procedure safely.However, if you were
my patient, I would ask that you discuss the procedure with your treating
physician and obtain his/her clearance before proceeding.I would also likely recommend that you
utilize a stool softener after surgery to avoid constipation and additional
discomfort.

Keith Denkler, MD · Answer

When your diverticulitis is stabilized you can consider a tummy tuck.  Diverticulitis is internal and an abdominoplasty is to correct the outer muscle layer with removal of fat and skin.

Elan B. Singer, MD · Answer

It all depends. Most often diverticulitis is treated medically at first. Once stable the usual recommendation is for surgery to remove that segment of colon that contains the diverticuli. Once that is all done there should not be anything that prevents you from having a tummy tuck. The only way to know for sure in your individual case is to discuss this with your general suegeon and plastic surgeon. Every case is different and requires individualized decision-making. Good luck!

Joseph Franklin, MD · Answer

Diverticular disease refers to the formation of multiple pockets, or diverticula, in the bowel.   These small pockets can become inflamed or infected leading to pain, diarrhea, or bleeding.   Constipation can be a contributing factor.   Having a tummy tuck shouldn't adversely affect diverticulosis.  However, stool softeners during the recovery process will be needed.  Pain medicines are notorious for decreasing bowel motility and contributing to postoperative constipation.

Saul Lahijani, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.If you have diverticulitis that is an active inflammation, but however if you have diverticulosis it is a diagnosis.  If you are having active inflammation I would not recommend doing any other surgery until the situation has resolved.  If you have diverticulosis then it is ok to proceed with surgery.  Many people have diverticulosis but may not know it at time of surgery it is when there is inflammation it becomes an issue.Having diverticulosis is not a contra-indication to having tummy tuck.  If you do have diverticulitis I would wait sometime until it is resolved to proceed with a tummy tuck.Good luckThank you

Just diagnosed with Diverticulitis. Should I still have my Tummy Tuck done?

Answers (10)

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