Can you have a tummy tuck with a spinal cord stimulator implanted?

Question

40yo female / 220lbs / no kids / two previous Lamenectomies- 5 & 10 yrs out I deal with chronic pain and am considering a spinal cord stimulator implant. The doctor said there are no contraindications. I do eat a pretty clean diet, but because I can not work out as hard as I once did ï haven't gotten the results I desire. I am considering a tummy tuck, for both esthetic reasons as well as to help further eliviate the pain. Would a SCS rule me out as a candidate for a tummy tuck?

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. A spinal cord stimulator is not a problem for performing a tummy tuck.  I have done this in many patients with spinal cord stimulators. The most important aspect is to find
a surgeon you are comfortable with.  I recommend that you seek consultation with a
qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

The stimulator should not interfere with a tummy tuck, provided it is out of the way. An exam is recommended to confirm that you are a candidate and to discuss your recovery and expectations.

Michael Dobryansky, MD, FACS · Answer

In general having a spinal cord stimulator should be a contraindication to an abdominoplasty. Your plastic surgeon will need to know the exact location of the stimulator which should be entirely possible if they talk to the spinal surgeon that does the implantation. In fact, some plastic surgeons, including myself are often involved in helping the spinal surgeons perform the implantation. Good luck!

Jaime Perez, MD · Answer

Based on the placement of most SCS's, there should not be any conflict between it and the tummy tuck procedure you are looking for. Although, if you take narcotics for your chronic pain some doctors may rule you out as an eligible candidate. For the most accurate information I suggest visiting a board certified plastic surgeon for a free consultation. Best of luck!

Frederick G. Weniger, MD, FACS, MBA · Answer

A consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is the first step to learn 
not only if a tummy tuck might be right for you, but also how abdominal 
contour surgery or a tummy tuck can improve your body image and 
abdominal contour. A consultation is designed to fully educate you about
 the procedure in a non-pressured environment, and should include:Discussion of your goals and evaluation of your individual caseOptions available in tummy tuck surgeryLikely outcomes and risks/potential complicationsThe course of treatment recommended by your board certified plastic surgeon- Best of Luck

Can you have a tummy tuck with a spinal cord stimulator implanted?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tummy tuck with implanted SCS.

Answer: Tummy tuck with implanted SCS.

Answer: Tummy Tuck Options

Answer: Tummy Tuck Options

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Can you have a tummy tuck with a spinal cord stimulator implanted?

Answers (5)

Answer: Tummy tuck with implanted SCS.

Answer: Tummy tuck with implanted SCS.

Answer: Tummy Tuck Options

Answer: Tummy Tuck Options

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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.