Should I be concerned I will go home with a Foley catheter after tummy tuck?

Question

I had a consult for a tummy tuck and the doctor said I would go home with a foley catheter in place that my husband could remove later and they would show him how to do that on my surgery day. I am very healthy, do not have continence problems. The surgery time estimated at 2 hours. I have never heard of this. Should I be concerned?

John LoMonaco, MD, FACS · Answer

I also prefer to leave a catheter in overnight as it makes pain control/not having to get up right after surgery so much easier. I've bene doing this for 20+ years and never seen an infection.

Probably because of the IV antibiotics we give before surgery !

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Firstkitty. Thank you for your question regarding the use of a Foley catheter after a tummy tuck.

It's understandable that you have concerns about going home with a Foley catheter after your tummy tuck. While it is not standard practice for all plastic surgeons, some do use Foley catheters as part of their postoperative care protocol. This can be due to various reasons, such as ensuring you stay hydrated and to avoid strain on your abdomen from getting up to use the restroom frequently in the initial recovery period.

Given your health and the estimated surgery time of only two hours, it might seem unusual. However, your surgeon might have specific reasons for this recommendation based on their experience and your particular case.

It's essential to discuss your concerns directly with your surgeon. Ask why they prefer using a Foley catheter in your case and what the specific benefits are. Understanding the rationale behind their decision can help alleviate your worries and ensure you are comfortable with the postoperative care plan.

Good luck with your upcoming surgery. I hope this helps to answer your question regarding the use of a Foley catheter after a tummy tuck.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

The use of a Foley catheter after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is not a routine occurrence, and its necessity would depend on specific circumstances related to your surgery and individual health. Generally, most patients do not go home with a Foley catheter after a standard tummy tuck.

Here are some considerations:

Type of Anesthesia:

The type of anesthesia used during the surgery can influence postoperative urinary function. General anesthesia and certain medications can affect bladder function, and in some cases, a catheter may be used during the surgery.
Surgical Duration:

The duration of the surgery can also impact the need for a catheter. Longer surgeries may increase the likelihood of urinary retention during the immediate postoperative period.
Individual Variations:

Every patient's response to surgery is unique. Some individuals may experience temporary difficulty with urinary function due to factors such as swelling, anesthesia, or postoperative pain.
Surgeon's Decision:

The decision to use a Foley catheter and its duration will be made by your surgeon based on the specific circumstances of your surgery, your health history, and their assessment of your postoperative needs.
If your surgeon recommends the use of a Foley catheter, it's important to discuss this with them during your preoperative consultation. They will explain the reasons behind the recommendation and provide guidance on what to expect during the recovery period.

In most cases, patients do not require a Foley catheter at home after a tummy tuck, and normal bladder function typically resumes as the effects of anesthesia wear off. If you have concerns or questions about the postoperative period, it's crucial to communicate openly with your surgeon, who can provide specific information based on your individual case.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There typically is no need for a patient to be discharged home with a foley catheter after a tummy tuck but each surgeon has her/his own post operative protocols.  I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Michael S. Kluska, DO · Answer

Most surgical procedures under 2.5 hours do not require a Foley catheter and if you are healthy and do not have a history of bladder issues, having a Foley catheter placed to go home is highly unusual.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Firstkitty,
every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Should I be concerned I will go home with a Foley catheter after tummy tuck?

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Should I be concerned I will go home with a Foley catheter after tummy tuck?

Answers (10)

Answer: Foley

Answer: Foley

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Answer: Foley catheter

Answer: Foley catheter after tummy tuck

Answer: Foley catheter after tummy tuck

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