Does tummy tucks require blood transfusions? Do you have to do the gym for 6 months prior to tummy tuck?

No, a tummy tuck does not usually require a blood transfusion unless there are preoperative or perioperative issues. Pre-surgical anemia is one indication where someone may need a blood transfusion. All of my patients scheduled for a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) will receive a preoperative lab panel to assess. Another possibility, although very rare, is a patient experiences severe blood loss around the time of the surgery (i.e. hematoma) which requires reoperation and transfusion.As far as the gym is concerned, it depends on the patient's BMI. If the patient is obese, then we encourage them to lose weight prior to the procedure. Make sure you seek the advice of an ASPS/ABMS board certified plastic surgeon who has experience in this procedure. Thanks for your question.

The risk of blood loss enough to require a transfusion with a tummy tuck is extremely low. Going to the gym will make you healthier but will not do what a tummy tuck does: tighten skin, correct muscle separation if needed, and spot reduce localized fat. You do need to be at a healthy weight (BMI less than 30) to minimize the risks of complications with tummy tuck surgery.

Dear justmeche,in most cases, blood transfusions are not required for tummy tuck surgeries. Regarding the gym prior to surgery, it is always better to lose weight before the surgery and be in better shape. You will need to have a BMI lower than 30 to be a candidate for a tummy tuck surgery. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

It would be very rare to require a blood transfusion after a tummy tuck.  If your lab tests are all normal and you don't have a condition that predisposes you to bleeding, the risk of needing a blood transfusion is very small.  A healthy diet and exercise are good habits in general for a healthy lifestyle.  I don't have a specific requirement that patients' go to the gym for 6 months prior to a tummy tuck.

No, Tummy tucks do not require blood transfusions.  To obtain your best results, you should be in good health, and have BMI of less than 30.  Have a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss tummy tuck surgery and/or surgical options that are right for you.  Best wishes.