I am a type 1 diabetic (insulin dependent) and am interested in getting a tummy tuck and lipo.

Question

Have you had type one diabetics with successful recovery from the surgery? I am also curious how long the recovery process will be?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

If your blood sugars are well controlled and you have no other medical problems, you can likely proceed with surgery.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Control of blood sugar before and after surgery with proper medical clearance should allow for good results.An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to discuss your options and expectations.

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

Hello!

You will need to be evaluated by a board certified plastic surgeon to see if you are a good candidate for surgery, while also discussing this with your primary care doctor or endocrinologist. I have operated on Type I diabetics who are optimized and on board with what is needed to effectively heal. Your case may need to be performed in a hospital to assure safety and tighter glucose control.

Best of luck!

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The best advice you can
receive is from an in-person consultation.  If your diabetes is well-controlled and you are able to obtain full medical clearance, then you may proceed forward.  If you are an appropriate candidate for a tummy tuck, this can be done
through a low and short incision, all completely below the bikini line.  The belly button can be designed to look
natural and have no scars on the exterior.  
Your muscles can also be plicated resulting in a flat abdomen.  Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  The most important
aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek
consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate
you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Ronald Downs, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for this wonderful question! Well controlled diabetes allows for a smooth and successful recovery. While there is an increased risk of wound difficulties with poorly controlled diabetes an open and honest dialogue between patient, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, and Primary Care Physician or Endocrinologist allows for a safe and smooth recovery from your tummy tuck. I have performed numerous successful tummy tucks on patients who have insulin dependent type I diabetes. Your recovery and downtime will average around 5-6 weeks before resuming regular vigorous activity although you will be up and walking slowly that night following your surgery. I encourage a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in order to discuss a personalized treatment pathway specific to your needs. I do hope you have found this information helpful and I wish you luck!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

You would need to be cleared for surgery by both your primary care doctor and Endocrinologist prior to moving forward with elective surgery.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Robert Frank, MD · Answer

You can definitely have a successful surgery. Obviously, you'll want to talk with your doc and anesthesia provider about when you can eat prior to surgery and when you should stop taking your insulin. Postop, your sugars may be a little off due to eating and the effects of stress but, its manageable. You are at slightly higher risk of infection and wound healing issues but not enough to mitigate a successful procedure. Good luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If your sugar is well controlled and you get medical clearance, you should be able to undergo surgery. Best of luck.

Mehdi K. Mazaheri, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. As long as your blood sugars are well managed and your HgbA1c is not too high you should do just fine. I have performed many successful surgeries on type one diabetic patients. Good luck. DrMaz

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Courtney,Diabetics heal slower and are at a higher risk for infection and skin loss.  That being said, I treat Type I and II diabetics frequently.  You should monitor your blood sugar levels more closely post surgery and plan on between 7-14 day recovery on average.  Adding liposuction to the sides and lower back gives a nicer end shape, but pushes you more towards the 14 day recovery.Best of luck in your decision and surgery.Dr. T

I am a type 1 diabetic (insulin dependent) and am interested in getting a tummy tuck and lipo.

Answers (16)

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