By law, do I have to declare my HIV status before getting a tummy tuck?

Question

I’m interested in having a tummy tuck as well as a few other procedures but a couple of enquiries I’ve made have turned me down due to HIV status even though it is well controlled and all levels are good. So my question is, by law do I have to declare my status?

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

People are not as freaked out about HIV as they used to be. So you should disclose this to your doctor. When this has happened to me, I just thank the patient for their honesty, make sure the staff knows, and it’s no big deal

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for reaching out with your question about whether you are legally required to declare your HIV status before undergoing a tummy tuck in the United States.
To the best of my knowledge, there is no specific law mandating the disclosure of your HIV status before a surgical procedure like a tummy tuck. The practices regarding HIV testing and disclosure can vary among plastic surgeons. While some may not specifically ask about HIV status, others might choose to test for HIV as part of their pre-operative evaluation, always with your consent.
Ethically speaking, it is highly advisable to inform your medical team of any health conditions you have, including HIV. This transparency is crucial for your safety and the safety of the healthcare professionals involved in your care. During surgery, there's a risk, however small, that a team member could be exposed to HIV through accidental needle sticks or other sharps injuries. While healthcare staff universally practice precautions to prevent such incidents, being aware of your HIV status allows them to take any additional necessary precautions.
In conclusion, while there is no law requiring you to disclose your HIV status for surgery in the US, it is in the best interest of all parties involved for you to voluntarily share this information.
Sincerely,

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

thanks so much for your question, 
During the preoperative test your surgeon may inquire about your overall health and medical history. It's crucial to provide accurate information about your health to ensure your safety during the surgery. Due to your condition, you must have your HIV test under normal ranges, including, CD3,CD4,CD8 and viral load and HIV must be undetectable, as well as an Infectious Diseases Doctor (ID Doctor) clearance in order to perform the procedure

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear heidjsbjak,
you should declare all your medical conditions, especially infections such as HIV. 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

Because of safety first of all, to yourself, you must always share with your providers your health condition. 
In our practice we always run all type of test including HIV. And we do not turn down patients because of HIV positive. You must be healthy and all labs results perfect and you are in!!
Be encouraged !
Dr. Cardenas

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Disclosing your HIV status to your surgeon, as well as your full medical history, is important for your safety during the procedure.  Some surgeons will require an HIV test as part of standard pre operative lab work.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

The law is actually on your side, and there is case law, stating that surgeons cannot discriminate against individuals who are HIV positive.
It’s probably not a good idea to try to sue a plastic surgeon into doing your operation.
Not disclosing your medical history, honestly, and accurately is inappropriate, in my opinion unethical And simply bad practice.
Put yourself in the doctors position and ask yourself what your preference would be.
I don’t think it’ll be that hard to find a provider to do your procedure.
Most forward thinking of a more current generation should have no issue offering you the procedure as long as your health is good, viral count is low, and there are no other circumstances preventing you from having the procedure.

By law, do I have to declare my HIV status before getting a tummy tuck?

Answers (7)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

Which procedure would help minimize the appearance of creasing vertical line after tummy tuck revision? (photos)

Full tummy tuck 1 year post op, gastrointestinal pains (Photo)

1 year post op, tummy tuck with lipo 360. Why is my belly not flat? It looks as if I'm pregnant Why is this? (Photo)

I'm considering a tummy tuck. What is the risk of bowel adhesions?

Had several lipo on my stomach already. Are there any solutions out there for a smaller waistline? (Photo)

Knot/Bump above belly button getting bigger? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS