I'm Scheduled For a Tummy Tuck While I'll Be On My Cycle, Should I Reschedule Surgery?

Question

I am scheduled to have a tummy tuck while I am on my cycle, should I postpone the surgery or just go through with it?

Steven H. Williams, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.

	In our San Francisco Bay Area practice we do not require patients to reschedule their procedures due to menstruation. Cosmetic surgeries we perform do not involve the uterus so delaying treatment for this reason is unnecessary.

	As always, all questions regarding medical issues and surgery should be discussed with your Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon prior to surgery.

	I hope this helps.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

Being on your menstrual cycle during tummy tuck surgery will have no negative impact on your results of surgery. The only concern with the two overlapping would be the discomfort- such as cramps or breast tenderness- associated your menstrual cycle. Still, you should rest assured that the date of your surgery need not be rescheduled because of this and that no specific risks or complications are associated with surgery during a woman’s menstrual cycle.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

You may go through with the surgery if you're okay with it, although you should mention this to your surgeon just in case. I normally recommend patients wear a feminine napkin instead of a tampon during the surgery.

John J. Corey, MD · Answer

Postpone? Heck, I always tell my patients it’s the BEST time to get a tummy tuck! After surgery, you’re already shuffling around the house with a pillow pressed to your tummy, not going anywhere, not doing anything AND Percocet is better than Midol! I remember hearing in Medical School that there could be increased bleeding but I think none of us really believe that anymore. Now, redheads and bleeding? We probably ALL have stories about that!! It’s not much science, but we all have stories.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

All things being equal, you may have a bit more swelling and a tiny bit more discomfort with surgery while having your menstrual period, but this poses no increased risk or trouble for you or your surgeon. This is slightly more of an issue with breast surgery (more swelling and discomfort possible), but with tummy tucks this really does not seem to ever be an issue. So many women have irregular periods, or the stress and anxiety before surgery triggers an early menstrual flow, that rescheduling ends up creating MORE stress and overall trouble than it prevents!

	Place a fresh tampon the morning of surgery, bring a spare or three with you to the surgery center, and notify the nurses caring for you. They are well-versed in helping you deal with this, and it poses no concern or risk. Let your surgeon know, and he or she will reassure you as well--we hear this all the time! Best wishes!

Leonard Tachmes, MD · Answer

I frequently perform tummy tucks on patients during menstruation cycles.  No medical reason to reschedule.

	 

	Dr Tachmes

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Just go through with it&ndash;should not pose any issues for your surgeon or the quality of your results.

	Best wishes.

Christa Clark, MD, FACS · Answer

There is no medical reason to postpone surgery because it coincides with your menstrual cycle. The medical staff taking care of you are prepared for these sorts of issues. If you have breast tenderness or swelling as part of your cycle, you may notice a slight increase in discomfort following breast surgery.

James Tang, MD · Answer

Although it may be inconvenient to have your menstruation begin when you are having your tummy tuck procedure, it should not cause a problem and you do not need to reschedule. If you have unusually heavy periods, then it might be a consideration to reschedule. If so, you should check your hematocrit to see that it is within normal range. Also, you should check to see that you do not have any unusual bleeding disorders prior to surgery.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Tummy tuck during your period can be an inconvenience, though there should be no problem with surgery. We have heard that some are worried that they may be more prone to bleeding from surgery itself though this is not the case. The stresses of surgery can often bring on your period sooner than expected, again not a problem. Do what you feel is best for you.
	Best of luck,
	peterejohnsonmd

I'm Scheduled For a Tummy Tuck While I'll Be On My Cycle, Should I Reschedule Surgery?

Answers (16)

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