Tummy tuck after car accident?

Question

Hello, a 32 year old woman.I was involved in a very serious accident almost 2 months ago.i had internal bleeding so my stomach was cut open all the way down, I had a lacerated liver.my stomach was stapled together and now looks very bad.would I be a candidate for a tummy tuck? And how long would I have to wait for my incision scar to heal? Is it possible insurance can cover the surgery? Thank you.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear about your accident and glad you are doing okay.  Photos would help determined me what needs to be done to make your tummy look better and there are probably several options.  However, I think you should wait at least six months prior to reopens tin, although you could certainly get a few opinions at this point.

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Salina760,I'm sorry to hear about your accident.  I'm glad that you are getting well.I agree that 6 months is the minimum to wait for elective general anesthesia.Insurance will not cover a tummy tuck for a scar revision.  They may cover scar revision surgery if the scar is causing physical problems, but that will only be known with time.If the incision was from the belly button down, a tummy tuck in the right patient can result in complete scar removal.  Scar above the belly button may be permanent.There are non-surgical options like laser and microneedling that can be used to make your scar less obvious.I would recommend that you see a board-certified plastic surgeon for an evaluation and to discuss your options.Good luck and feel better,Dr. Shah

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Insurance is unlikely to cover a tummy tuck, but an insurance company may cover a scar revision.Kenneth Hughes, MDBeverly Hills, CA

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

Be proud of your scars from the general surgeons at Palomar, reminders that your life was saved.Maybe abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) or plastic surgical revision would improve them, but wait at least a year or so after your initial procedure.Because the procedure is aesthetic, unless you have an incisional hernia, it's not likely your health insurance benefits include abdominoplasty, tummy tuck, or scar revision.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Without examining you in person, it is impossible to answer your question. Yes, tummy tuck surgery could improve the appearance of your abdominal area. It is unlikely that it would be covered by your insurance. Schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to be assessed in person. My best,
Dr. Sheila Nazarian
@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

Tummy tuck after car accident?

Answers (5)