How likely is it to obtain compartment syndrome after a Tummy Tuck or Butt Lift with fat transfer?

Question

How likely is it to obtain compartment syndrome after Tummy Tuck or Butt Lift with fat transfer?

John LoMonaco, MD, FACS · Answer

There is an abdominal compartment syndrome, but tummy tuck in a good candidate would be highly unlikely to cause this. I have never seen, nor heard of it.  Compartment syndrome is also not typically described in the buttock, however the grafting of too much fat at one time, combined with damage to the deep veins in the area can cause the fat to move into the bloodstream. This can cause serious and even fatal consequences.

Robert D. Wilcox, MD · Answer

Dear Newbodi16, it is not really possible to have a compartment syndrome from these procedures.  A tummy tuck does, however, increase intraabdominal pressure and could slow down drainage from the legs, making a blood clot more likely to form.  That is why, it is important to use intermittent sequential compression hose during the surgery and immediately postoperatively.  The bigger risk from butt lift with fat transfer is a possibility some of the fat get under the veins and embolized to the lungs.  I hope this has been helpful.
Robert D. Wilcox, M.D.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is highly likely to have comportment syndrome after TT in good candidate. Sameway highly unlikely in Buttock fat injections. But fat embolism can happen in fat injections. Please consult with a board certified PS for evaluation.

Christopher L. Hess, MD · Answer

Compartment syndrome is any time the pressure increases in a closed anatomic space in the body.  This occurs most commonly in the extremities with trauma.  The muscle compartments of the extremities are surrounded by tough tissue called fascia.  When a bone is broken blood from the bone is diffused into these compartments.  The pressure builds and eventually prevents the blood from getting to the muscles.  If not treated the muscles will die reducing function.Although this can happen in the abdomen it is very uncommon.  It can occur in trauma but is exceptionally uncommon in elective surgery.  I've closed rectus diastases that were 12cm wide without a problem.  Liposuction performed by a non Board Certified Plastic Surgeon carries a significant risk of abdominal puncture which could lead to abdominal compartment syndrome, sepsis and death.  Know your surgeon.

How likely is it to obtain compartment syndrome after a Tummy Tuck or Butt Lift with fat transfer?

Answers (4)

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