Lipo and Tummy tuck from May 2022

Question

Hi, I had my lipo and tummy tuck done in May 2022, shortly after in September I started to have diarrhea constantly everyday and still having this issue today. Could this procedure have caused this? I’ve never had anything like this before the procedure and would just like clarification on how to fix it.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you, Cstam1985, for your question regarding the persistent diarrhea you’ve been experiencing since your liposuction and tummy tuck in May 2022. While it’s natural to wonder if the surgery could have caused these symptoms, it’s important to understand that neither liposuction nor a tummy tuck typically affects the digestive system. These procedures target fat removal and muscle tightening, which do not directly impact gastrointestinal function.

However, it is possible that other factors, such as the stress of surgery, post-operative medications, or changes in diet or lifestyle, could have temporarily influenced your digestive system. Given that the diarrhea has persisted for over a year, it is unlikely to be directly caused by the procedure itself and may be related to an underlying condition, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or food sensitivities, that was triggered around the same time.

I recommend consulting a gastroenterologist to investigate the cause of your ongoing diarrhea and find an appropriate treatment. They will be able to conduct tests and identify whether your symptoms are due to a digestive issue unrelated to the surgery. It’s crucial to get this assessed for your overall health and well-being.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is unusual to develop an issue like this from liposuction and a tummy tuck, and for it to last for so long. Please speak with your primary care physician for assessment and treatment.

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

These procedures have zero effect on the viscera. Seek the care of a GI specialist to sort out this problem.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Cstam1985,
lipo and Tummy tuck are procedures performed on the outer side of abdomen and your surgeon didn't touch the inside of abdominal cavity. You need to get a GI examination. 
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you are having.  This is not related to your surgery as neither procedure enters your abdominal cavity.  I encourage you to visit with a GI specialist to help with treatment.

Lipo and Tummy tuck from May 2022

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Lipo and Tummy tuck from May 2022

Answers (9)

Answer: Lipo and Tummy tuck

Answer: Lipo and Tummy tuck

Answer: GI issues

Answer: GI issues

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