Is a tummy tuck /muscle repair visible through a CT scan?

Question

I have a CT scan scheduled for my abdominal and pelvic aera. I recently had a tummy tuck and lipo, will my surgery be visible via CT? I did have abdominal muscle repair and lipo of flanks. My CT scan is not related to my TT and is due an issue I had well before my TT. I have not discussed my TT with my doctor and I would prefer not to. However I am concerned the CT scan will have findings or show that I have had the procedure.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Yes, a CT scan of your abdominal and pelvic area will likely show signs of your recent tummy tuck and muscle repair. The changes in the muscles and tissue, as well as any surgical materials such as sutures, can be visible on a CT scan.

While I understand your preference not to discuss your tummy tuck with your doctor, it's essential to be honest with your healthcare providers about your medical history, including any surgical procedures you've had. This information can help them better understand your situation and provide the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Remember that your doctor is there to help you, and open communication is key to ensuring you receive the best possible care. Thank you for your question, and I wish you the best of luck with your upcoming CT scan and any medical concerns you may have.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Football mom, thank you for your question. Is not likely that the procedure to be visible on a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis. CT scans use X-rays to create images of internal organs, bones, and tissues, and are primarily used to detect abnormalities in the area that is practice. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS), American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP).

Mark McRae, MD · Answer

Yes your CT scan will show evidence of recent surgery and you should disclose that to the radiologist that is interpreting the study. If the results of this study goes back to your doctor than it is likely that there will be at least some commentary on swelling or post surgical changes.  If the CT scan is not urgent then you can consider delaying the procedure at least until you are outside the initial post operative period as your swelling resolves. If it is urgent then do not delay essential care.
 Tummy tuck surgery is very common, and you do not have to worry about any judgement or stigma from your family doctor. It is helpful if your family doctor has a complete and accurate medical history on file for you in order to best care for you.
Best wishes

John A. Kotis, DO, FACS, FACOS · Answer

Hi
Diastasis recti typically can be diagnosed by physical exam, as well as by ultrasound or CT scan.
Please see a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck
Dry Kotis

Nancy de Kleer, MD, FRCSC (Plast) · Answer

After a CT scan is performed, a specialized doctor will review the images that are taken and create a report based on the findings. 
A CT scan will not be able to diagnose that you had a tummy tuck, but sometimes changes from surgery will be seen and mentioned in the report.   For example, a comment may be made in the report that some scar tissue is present or some material from stitches is present, or if you have had a previous CT scan, that the muscles are in a different position. 
I suggest you explore your feelings about why you don't want your family physician to know about the surgery.  You may be pleasantly surprised that your family doctor is supportive. You would not have undergone a big procedure like a tummy tuck without a good reason to do it.  It is not up to your family physician to have an opinion on your decision, but to professionally support your decision.
All the best to you,
Dr. Nancy de Kleer

Ahmad H. Ahmadi, MD · Answer

The CT scan will show the rectus muscles have been opposed to each other.  If the TT was done recently, it would also show swellilng of the soft tissue (fatty tisseue) and possiblly small insignificant fluid collections.  The radiologist will comment on the abnormal findings but may or may not put it all together as tummy tuck.

Jonathan McCue, MD · Answer

I don't think it would be apparent on a CT scan, although you have a surgical clips that are visible. As a general rule I wouldn't hide your medical history from your physician. It may be relevant and I would be surprised if you received any judgement at all

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The MRI would be more accurate in showing soft tissue, but it may show on the CT scan.  You can ask the radiologist for clarification. If your doctor has examined you it is possible that she/he may be aware that you had a tummy tuck.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

A CT scan is very accurate for bony structures, it is not as detailed on soft tissue as an MRI.  I feel the CT might show the TT repair, but not the liposuction.
I would ask a radiologist for a more accurate assessment.
Dr. Taranow

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Evidence of a tummy tuck will be visible on a CT scan. It would be poor form of a radiologist not to notice the scar tissue and variations in anatomy on someone who has had this procedure.
I suggest being open, honest and transparent with all healthcare professionals. Not sharing your medical history is inappropriate in almost all healthcare settings.
When these type of questions arise, there’s usually something unusual about the doctor-patient relationship.
A doctor-patient relationship should be a relationship where there should be no hesitation to share medical information.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Is a tummy tuck /muscle repair visible through a CT scan?

Answers (11)

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