Does Tummy Tuck Affect Life Span?

Question

I would like to have a mommy makeover. I am worry about the risks of having the tummy tuck procedure. Lets just assume that the outcome of the tummy tuck was a success without any complications. I am just wondering how the tummy tuck will effect my body as I age. Will the procedure shorten my life span?

Douglas L. Gervais, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck and breast enlargement will not affect your lifespan. It most likely will significantly improve your quality of life however.

Bhupesh Vasisht, MD · Answer

This is an interesting concern. I have had a number of patients that I have performed mommy makeovers who have been concerned about this issue. In short, the answer to the question is NO! Life span is not at all hindered by this type of surgery. A patient's overall pre-surgical health is important determining factor in determining whether a patient is good candidate for this procedure. I recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle before and after the surgery. It is my hope that mommy makeover surgeries will enhance a patient's lifestyle and restore the body to pre-pregnancy shape.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I consider abdominoplasty one of the most physiologically significant cosmetic operations. The risks are significant and the convalescence significant as well. Nevertheless, in a properly selected and prepared patients, the results are usually worth the investment. Once recovered from the operation, it will not affect the length of your life.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

There is not association with Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty and alteration of life span.  I am curious where this question comes from?

	 

	Good Luck.

Joseph Mele, MD · Answer

An uncomplicated tummy tuck will not shorten your life, but I have many patients who find their life more enjoyable after their tummy tuck.

	The tummy tuck tightens the skin and muscle fascia of the abdomen, and can remove excess fat to improve then contours of the belly. The procedure does not lengthen or shorten ones lifespan.

	There are risks with any procedure, and they should be discussed before surgery as part of your consultation. Informed consent is paramount to making a good decision. To minimize the risks, it is important to see a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, who operates in an Accredited Surgical Facility with a Board Certified Anesthesiologist. The majority of tummy tucks have no complications. Once healed, your life continues normally, with less of a bulge.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

Breast surgery and a tummy tuck will not shorten your life span but enrich your quality of life. This is a wonderful procedure with a high patient satisfaction rate. This is a difficult recovery so be prepared. Pick a good plastic surgeon and follow instructions very carefully.

Glenn Vallecillos, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question.

	To my knowledge there is no data in the scientific literature that would suggest that undergoing a tummy tuck in any way shortens your life span.  Patients, when properly selected as ideal candidates, are generally very satisfied with their results and can expect marked improvements in contour of the abdominal regions following an abdominoplasty.

	Kindest Regards,

	Glenn Vallecillos, M.D., F.A.C.S.

David L. Abramson, MD · Answer

I am not aware of any effect that an abdominoplasty would have on life expectancy. As long as there are no complications there should be no effect

Thomas T. Nguyen, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck will not shorten your life span by any means!!   It will make your quality of life better and more enjoyable!!

B. Aviva Preminger, MD · Answer

No!  A tummy tuck should not affect your lifespan in any way!  That said, it willl likely improve the quality of your life!

Does Tummy Tuck Affect Life Span?

Answers (17)