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

Nothing needs to be done by you during the general anesthesia, the anesthesiologist will take care of everything.  It is definitely safe.  However, we have our patients bring the nasal CPAP machine from home for the recovery room.  It really makes the wake up much easier.

I have performed safely many surgeries on sleep apnea patients.  if the you are also obese, the risks are certainly greater than in a healthier patient.preop evaluation by anesthesia, and postop evaluation in the PACU with possible need for overnight oberservation will be important.  make sure you inform your surgeon's of your condiditon.  Use of Exparel to minimize narcotics may also help.good luck

Hello calytonmc. Thanks for your question. I have done tummy tuck in patients who have sleep apnea successfully in the past. However, to determine whether this is a safe option for you, then a full preoperative medical evaluation would be in order. Things to consider would be your overall health status, weight and degree of airway obstruction. Most patients are able to get "clearance" but may need to lose weight or spend several nights under observation with their CPAP machine after the operation. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO.