High ALT levels for Tummy Tuck/BBL combo surgery

Question

Hello, I’m supposed to have tummy tuck and BBL combo surgery in two weeks. My bloodwork came back and my ALT levels in my liver are 34. The doctor said it’s a little elevated and it’s currently under review. Is this a concern? Can I lower this level in two weeks? Will this be a reason why I may not get cleared for surgery?

Rajaie Hazboun, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for posting your question hereWhen it comes to lab work, it should be looked as a small part of your overall pre-surgical workup , if you are otherwise healthy and all your other lab workup is normal it should not affect your surgical planning , your level is borderline and could be secondary to a number of things such as excessive alcohol consumption , excessive Tylenol or other hepatotoxic medication consumption , fatty liver etc. If you want to lower it I would recommend avoiding alcohol, liver toxic medications and eating a healthy low carb /low fat diet.
I hope this helps, best of luck!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding ALT levels before your tummy tuck and BBL combo. ALT (alanine aminotransferase) is an enzyme that reflects liver function, and elevated levels can sometimes indicate liver stress or inflammation. An ALT level of 34 is considered only slightly elevated, but it’s essential to understand what may be causing the increase.

Here’s what you should know and consider:

Potential Causes: A mild ALT elevation can occur for various reasons, including recent use of medications, alcohol intake, a fatty liver, or even exercise. In many cases, slight elevations are temporary.

Surgical Clearance: Your surgeon will want to ensure that your liver is functioning optimally before surgery, as a healthy liver is essential for managing the anesthesia and medications involved in the procedure. Slight elevations often don’t pose a significant concern, but it’s ultimately up to your surgeon and anesthesiologist to determine safety.

Ways to Lower ALT Levels:

Avoid Alcohol: Eliminate alcohol in the days leading up to surgery to reduce liver strain.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water supports liver function.
Minimize Medications and Supplements: Some can affect the liver, so discuss these with your surgeon.
Eat a Liver-Friendly Diet: Consider foods like leafy greens, beets, and antioxidant-rich fruits to support liver health.
Follow-Up: Check with your healthcare provider to monitor your ALT levels before your surgery date. With a mild elevation, it’s likely you’ll still be cleared, but it’s essential to stay informed. Wishing you a smooth process toward surgery!

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. The levels are only mildly elevated . A consultation with your primary care physician will help you to get a preoperative  clearance  for surgery. All the best!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The ALT level is a reflection of liver function.  Your surgeon will advise if this level is acceptable to proceed with surgery.  The level is only slightly elevated.  You can help your levels by eating a healthy, balanced diet, exercising regularly and avoiding alcohol.

Jose Leon, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question. Liver transaminases (AST and ALT) are prescribed in the pre operative setting as part of assessing liver function. Well your levels are borderline, and although I'm sure you've already googled the reason for your ALT levels to be borderline high, most of the time this answers to a given pain killer like Tylenol, recent alcohol use or antibiotic, so a small elevation shouldn't be a problem and there are further tests your doctor can perform, to assess liver function. A significant elevation of ALT or AST is when the double the upper level. Good luck with your procedure

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Always best to get a medical clearance prior to any major surgery since you now have liver function questions best to talk to your primary doctor internist, and your surgeon. Am my office. I would discuss this in detail with you and give you all the benefit ratios. Best of virtual consult with.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

ALT levels can be an indication of liver damage.
When there’s serious liver disease, the levels typically go into the thousands.
For that reason a level of 34 is considered very close to normal
I suggest you talk to the doctor for organ test
If the plastic surgeon ordered the tests, then they should have received copies of their results and help you decipher the results.
Are you traveling for surgery?
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

High ALT levels for Tummy Tuck/BBL combo surgery

Answers (7)

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