How Common Are Blood Clots After Tummy Tuck?

It is uncommon for patients to develop a blood clot in the legs (DVT) with cosmetic surgery, but the risk does exist. To reduce the risk, most surgeons use either compression pumps (SCD's) or a blood thinner injection. Patients at a higher risk include: prior history of blood clots, family history of clots or bleeding disorders, obesity, prolonged surgery, and use of hormone replacement or supplements. I suggest that you discuss this with your surgeon and primary care physician prior to surgery.

Aliya--if you Google  "Caprini score" you can get a "scorecard" which rates the risk for clotting after surgery. You will get at least one point for a major surgery. Various conditions are scored. One of the higher risks is a family history, so if any parent or siblings have had a clot, that gives you 3 points. Once you add the points to get your score the  recommended treatment will appear at the bottom of the sheet. If you pass the threshold score, some pharmacologic anti-clotting medication will be recommended--usually injections of lovenox. If you feel your score suggests that Lovenox should be used, discuss with your surgeon.

All the best.