Can I have a Tummy Tuck with a herniated disc?

Question

Hello! I'm thinking about having an abdominoplasty done, but I have an osteophyte between C4 Y C5 that press my nerves I can't lying face down for long and I also have a lower back herniated disk. I'm concern if I'm able to have this surgery with my condition. What would you say about it?

Adam Rubinstein, MD · Answer

Over the years I have operated upon many patients that have back issues. Some cases require special care to be certain that the patient is comfortable for the procedure. Most patients are fine without any changes to our usual protocol for care. In fact, I have found that many patients with lower back problems actually feel better and often experience less discomfort after a tummy tuck due to improved core muscle support. Part of a tummy tuck realigns the abdominal muscles which can make the support for the back better. Its not uncommon for patients to even have better posture after abdominoplasty. Of course, every case is different and if there are special considerations in your case I would recommend having your surgeon speak with your back specialist prior to surgery. I'm confident that you can comfortably go through an abdominoplasty with good care.I hope this helps! You can find more tips and useful information in my Instagram profile @plasticsurgerytruths

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

You must get clearance from your orthopedic or neurological surgeon before considering a tummy tuck.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

On its own that doesn't prevent you from having surgery however if I was your surgeon I would want a letter from your spine surgeon clearing you for the procedure and arrange for an anaesthesia consult before agreeing to proceed with surgery. Safety first!

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you  for your awesome question! Your bio is very helpful, however without the benefit of knowing your full health history and an in person exam it's impossible to say for certain. 
  I would recommend you have an in person consultation with a plastic surgeon with these credentials: *Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery -- The gold star symbol*A member of the ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons) -- The circle symbol*A member of the ASAPS (American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) -- the Queen Nefertitti symbol with a Triangle  *On faculty at local plastic surgery teaching program -- in our office we are affiliated with both Duke and UNC schools of plastic surgery.    Feel free to contact our office, it would be our pleasure to answer your questions in person. I hope this is helpful and wish you all the best in your journey.  My sincere best, Brian S. Coan, MD, FACS

Joshua A. Halpern, MD, PA · Answer

Thank you for your question.
I have performed many tummy tucks on patients with herniated discs. We would talk to your back specialist to see if you are a candidate for a tummy tuck. The Tummy Tuck I invented gives a natural looking tummy and belly button, relatively flat tummy, significantly less pain and faster recovery versus traditional techniques. The patients typically wake up from surgery in no pain. They walk to the recovery room. It is not uncommon for patients to take only Tylenol for pain after surgery. The oldest patient I performed this type of tummy tuck on is 80 years old, and she only took Tylenol for pain. It is not uncommon for patients to be driving 7 days after surgery. I did have a 64 year old woman who drove 4 days after surgery. For more information please watch the enclosed video. I hope you find this information useful.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I do not think that it is s good idea to have a tummy tuck if you are still having problems with a herniated disc. Most patients have to remain hunched over a bit during the early post-op period.

Derby Sang Caputo, MD · Answer

Hello,  thank you for your question. Having a herniated disc may not be an absolute contraindication to have a tummy tuck.  However the recovery time for the procedure should be a lot more difficult because of the position you need to be after surgery might increase pain associated with your herniated disc.  Hope this helps. Have a great day.

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