Am I able to get a tummy tuck even if I have ulcerative colitis?

Question

I’ve been wanting to get a tummy tuck for a long time now . In the pastwanted to get a bbl and got turned away by doctors due to me having ulcerative colitis . I’ve had it controlled for years now I’ve been on infusions of inflectra for years now . I am 32 years old and weigh 152 . I’m very active and gym isn’t getting rid of this stubborn fat

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about whether you can undergo a tummy tuck while managing ulcerative colitis. Based on your history, it sounds like your condition is well-controlled with infusions of Inflectra and a healthy, active lifestyle. This is a great sign and suggests you may be a candidate for a tummy tuck, but additional precautions will need to be taken. Before proceeding, your plastic surgeon will likely collaborate with your gastroenterologist to ensure that your ulcerative colitis is stable and that you're not at an increased risk for complications. They may also recommend adjustments to your Inflectra schedule to optimize healing and reduce the risk of infection or delayed wound healing.

A tummy tuck is a significant procedure, so it’s essential to make sure your immune system and overall health are in the best possible condition before surgery. Controlled ulcerative colitis often doesn’t prevent plastic surgery, but it does require careful planning. If stubborn fat and loose skin are your primary concerns, a tummy tuck can help restore a flatter abdomen and improve your confidence. I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience working with patients with autoimmune conditions. Together with your medical team, they can determine the safest and most effective approach for your surgery.

Good luck with your journey, and congratulations on maintaining your health and active lifestyle! When seeking surgery, always consult an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon.

Sincerely,
J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear grangel001,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Generally speaking, your conditions should be well under control and you will need to get a clearance from your doctor. 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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You may still be able to have a tummy tuck with UC if your symptoms are well controlled.  It is important to speak to your GI specialist as you likely will have to be off your medications for a period before and after surgery.

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

It is possible to have surgery with ulcerative colitis, however you will need to stop any immunomodulating medications (DMARDS, infusions, etc) for one month prior to your procedure and at least one month after. If you have any wound healing complications following your surgery, this may delay restarting your UC medications. You will have to discuss this with for GI physician as not all patients with UC can stop their medications for that long, but there may be other medications (PO mesalamine) that can help stave off any acute flares.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

As long as your symptoms are well controlled and you are well nourished, surgery can be an option. Your doctor who manages your ulcerative colitis may have to work in conjunction with your surgeon to alter or temporarily stop immunosuppressive medications.

Am I able to get a tummy tuck even if I have ulcerative colitis?

Answers (8)

Answer: Need to Take a Break from Meds

Answer: Need to Take a Break from Meds

Answer: Ulcerative colitis and surgery

Answer: Ulcerative colitis and surgery

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Am I able to get a tummy tuck even if I have ulcerative colitis?

Answers (8)

Answer: Need to Take a Break from Meds

Answer: Need to Take a Break from Meds

Answer: Ulcerative colitis and surgery

Answer: Ulcerative colitis and surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.