It is always best to optimize your condition prior to surgery including treating anemia.Have your labs to determine that the hemoglobin is indeed low, particularly if you have never had a diagnosis of anemia. In most cases, the anemia is an iron-deficiency anemia and introduction of oral or parenteral iron can improve the anemia over a period of time. In most cases, oral iron is effective and can bring the hemoglobin levels to optimal levels. If the oral absorption of iron is poor, iron infusions can be utilized to bring the hemoglobin levels up. If the hemoglobin levels remain low, ask your plastic surgeon if the TT surgery should be postponed until the hemoglobin levels reach a satisfactory level. In some unusual cases of iron-deficiency anemia, the replacement of the iron can be very difficult and can lead to suboptimal hemoglobin levels no matter the intervention or method of administration. It is also very important that an individual with a lower hemoglobin be diagnosed correctly as there are many reasons for a lower hemoglobin other than iron deficiency.
Hello and thank you for your question.In order to be in the best possible conditions to undergo an elective surgical procedure such as tummy tuck, it is necessary to have normal hemoglobin levels which are low in patients with iron deficiency. Therefore it is necessary to restore your optimal iron and hemoglobin levels with supplements. Your GP will be the first point of contact to address this problem. All the best with your tummy tuckAndrea MarandoPlastic and Cosmetic Surgeon, Manchester and London, UK
Dear Ravenpri,you should be healthy prior to any elective procedure. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery