How Common Are Blood Clots After Tummy Tuck?

    Blood clots after tummy tuck are not common.  Blood clots that lead to pulmonary embolus are even more uncommon.  However, if you have more than one risk factor for blood clots other than having a tummy tuck surgery, you may need Lovenox or something similar.  Your plastic surgeon should be familiar with the Caprini assessment, and he or she should be able to determine if this is indicated.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Deep Vein Thrombosis or DVT can sometimes occur by blood clotting in the deep veins of the body. This can sometimes occur after a tummy tuck. Fortunately, the average tummy tuck candidate has a low change of developing DVT. However, the risk could increase for those who smoke, have a genetic predisposition for hypercoagulation, over the age of 50, use oral contraceptive and/or are undergoing hormone therapy. Precautions should be taken by your surgeon before, during and after surgery to minimize this type of risk.

Thank you for the question. The risk of deep venous thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism associated with tummy tuck surgery is small, but real. Your surgeon will obtain a careful personal and family history ( and sometimes additional bloodwork if necessary) to ascertain your risk factors and determine the best “prophylaxis”. Avoidance of nicotine products and/or estrogen related products may be indicated.Choosing your plastic surgeon carefully is important. Having the procedure performed in a fully accredited surgical facility is also important.  Routine measures such as compression stockings and early adulation are some of the measures taken. Some patients benefit from use of “blood thinners” around the time of surgery as well.Again, your plastic surgeon will be able to ascertain your own personal risk “profile” when it comes to potential deep venous thrombosis and/or pulmonary embolism.  It is probable that once you have had this communication with your plastic surgeon, your anxiety level will decrease.Best wishes.