Considering a tummy tuck but I also have sleep apnea. What can be done for that while under anesthesia and is it safe?

Tummy tuck can be safely performed in patients who suffer from sleep apnea.  During surgery, the anesthesiologist will be controlling the breathing with an endotracheal tube, better known as a breathing tube.  It is very safe and controlled.  After surgery, you will need to make sure to use your CPAP machine when sleeping, just as you have prior to surgery.  The only other advice is to definitely seek a medical clearance from your general doctor prior to having this surgery, to make sure that you are fit from a cardiovascular standpoint to proceed with this surgery safely. 

Let your surgeon and anesthesiologist know about your history of sleep apnea and bring your CPAP machine if you have one to the surgery.  Your sleep apnea will not be a problem during your surgery because your anesthesiologist will have control of keeping your airway open with a tube.  At home be certain to have your CPAP machine on while you sleep as the narcotics you will be taking can compromise breathing.  With proper treatment and planning it should be safe to have the procedure even if you have sleep apnea.  Best wishes, Dr. Lepore.