40 years old with sickle cell, what is the likelihood of a board-certified physician taking me as a tummy tuck patient?

Question

I'm a 40-year-old sickle cell woman interested in getting a Tummy Tuck. I wanted to know what is the likelihood of a board-certified physician would take me as a patient. I know I'm at high risk of complications post-op with getting a crisis. But I believe if I follow the instructions of my health care team (hematologist, pulmonologist and cardiologist). I would greatly appreciate all advise.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding whether you can undergo a tummy tuck with sickle cell anemia. In my opinion, I don’t think you should be prohibited from having a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty even though you have sickle cell anemia. It will be very important for your chosen plastic surgeon to work with your hematologist, pulmonologist, and cardiologist to come up with a plan. I do not see any reason why not to have a tummy tuck. Preoperatively, an extensive workup needs to be performed to minimize any postoperative complications. Also, intraoperatively and postoperatively, it will be important for you to remain well hydrated. Also, pain can initiate a sickle cell crisis so it will be important for you to take your pain medication after your tummy tuck. Due to the high-risk nature of your procedure, I would also suggest that this procedure be performed in a hospital. Good luck. I hope this helps to answer your question regarding whether it’s possible to have a tummy tuck while having sickle cell anemia. Thank you very much.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Fearless742706,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. You will need to get a clearance from your doctor prior to surgery. 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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

40 years old with sickle cell, what is the likelihood of a board-certified physician taking me as a tummy tuck patient?

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