Can you have a tummy tuck if you have multiple loops of unobstructed bowel? If so, can a surgeon fix it during a TT? (Photo)

Question

I am a 31 yr old female, 5 ft 3 and about 110 pounds. I have had two c-sections. I have an umbilical hernia, diastasis recti and multiple loops of unobstructed bowel. I would like to get a tummy tuck to fix my hernia and diastasis recti but was wondering if a plastic surgeon would be able to fix the loops of bowel during the tummy tuck or would that be something I would need to fix prior to TT surgery? Thank you

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Elise0123,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Plastic surgeon can remove loose skin, tighten muscles and repair hernia but your bowels won't be touched or repaired. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you 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

Brian Bassiri-Tehrani, MD · Answer

This is a fantastic question. Presuming you are in good health, you can be a suitable candidate to undergo a surgery to fix your hernias and a tummy tuck at the same time. Often times, this will require a General Surgeon who can fix your hernias and release your adhered bowel as needed during surgery. The diastasis recti can be addressed with the tightening of your abdominal wall muscles (plication), and the extra skin and fat can be removed, leaving you with a horizontal scar that is low on your abdominal wall, around where your c-section scar is. It is important to discuss the surgical options with your surgeon to see what is best for you.

Geuris Cruz Quiroz, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question dear. 
I recommend you to get that fix before getting a tummy tuck with with muscle and hernia repair. Having everything together can be risky and also keep in mind the time of anesthesia it will be longer, please contact a surgeon who can help you fix your  loops and after 6-8 months you can have your plastic surgery done. The best of luck!

Ramiro Morales, Jr., MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and pictures.  From the looks of your pictures, you have a fairly large diastasis as well as a large ventral/umbilical hernia.  In doing the tummy tuck and the hernia repair both the diastasis and hernia will be fixed.  I am not sure what you mean by fixing the loops of bowel as your entire intestine consists of loops of bowel.  Unless the bowel loops are incarcerated or obstructed as the hernia and diastasis is repaired, these will return to their normal position in the abdominal cavity.  Be sure to see a Board-Certified PS who may also want to work with a general surgeon at the same time to give you the best aesthetic and functional results.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

The bowel and hernia would need to be repaired first. Once healed then the tuck could be done safely.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Often times your hernias can be repaired at the same time as the tummy tuck.  The diastasis will be corrected as well as excess skin removed.  You should have significant contour improvements from a tummy tuck.  Be sure to see a double board certified plastic surgeon for your procedures.  A review of your medical history is needed to ensure you are a good candidate.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

It may be some misunderstanding in regards to your understanding of your gastrointestinal system. Having what is described as an obstructed loops of the bowel describes a normal abdomen. Bowel obstruction or a history of bowel obstructions, is a different category fairly serious situation.
Based on the information given, it appears you should be fine. If you have a history of small bowel obstructions, and you should definitely talk to a general surgeon about this condition before having a tummy tuck. 
I suggest having multiple in person, consultations with local board-certified plastic surgeons in your community. This will help you get a better understanding in regards to assessment and a better understanding of what the treatment entails.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Can you have a tummy tuck if you have multiple loops of unobstructed bowel? If so, can a surgeon fix it during a TT? (Photo)

Answers (7)

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