If I have May Thurner Syndrome is it safe to have a tummy tuck, breast lift and arm lift?

Question

I found out I have May Thurner Syndrome. My vein doctor says I should be fine to go through with my plan for a tummy tuck, breast lift and arm lift but I’m scared because having May Thurner Syndrome increases my risks of DVT and pulmonary embolisms. May-Thurner syndrome (MTS) is caused when the left iliac vein is compressed by the right iliac artery. I may also have thoracic outlet Syndrome. I have testing for this in Jan. It is another compression of blood vessels in my shoulder and ribs.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck frequently results in increased intra-abdominal pressure, which may have adverse effect on your venous return.  I would specifically discuss this with your physician for medical clearance prior to the tummy tuck.  In terms of your breasts and arms, this would not be a factor.  For your breasts, I recommend The Bellesoma Method.  This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevated higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation and the ability to breast feed are maintained.  Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Robert Kearney, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes you can have surgery and yes you are at an increased risk.  The perfect trifecta for a DVT is stasis of the blood(caused by being immobile or May Thurner Syndrome), blood vessel injury and blood that is prone to clot.  In your case you have a defined mechanical issue which can be counteracted by compression stockings and sequential compression devices.  If you are over weight you should also lose the weight before surgery.  You then need to ambulate immediately post op and perhaps get sequential compression  boots for home when you are in bed. Lastly stay vigilant as  you can treat a DVT long before it kills you in most cases.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Badwolf0010.  I appreciate your concern, however you really need to see and follow the advice of the specialists caring for your particular medical issues. There certainly are degrees of May Thurner syndrome, and if your case is mild, Surgery still may be an option. Of course precautions will need to be taken. Get a full evaluation and work up prior to considerin’s your Mommy Makeover surgery. Good luck!

Bryan Curtis, MD · Answer

May-Thurner Syndrome (MTS) is a condition in which there is compression of the left common iliac vein by the overlying right iliac artery, potentially leading to deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other venous issues in the left lower extremity.Before undergoing any elective cosmetic surgery procedures like a tummy tuck, breast lift, or arm lift, it's crucial to consult with both a vascular specialist and a board-certified plastic surgeon. These medical professionals can evaluate your specific case, taking into account your medical history, the severity of May-Thurner Syndrome, and any potential risks associated with the surgeries.Here are some considerations:1. Vascular Evaluation: Given the vascular nature of May-Thurner Syndrome, a vascular specialist should assess the condition and provide guidance on whether the surgeries are safe. They may recommend certain precautions or adjustments to minimize the risk of complications.2. Thrombosis Risk: Procedures such as tummy tuck, breast lift, and arm lift can carry a risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other blood clot-related complications. Individuals with May-Thurner Syndrome may have an increased risk of clotting, so close collaboration between the plastic surgeon and vascular specialist is essential.3. Preoperative Screening: Your healthcare team may conduct preoperative screening tests to assess your overall health and identify any potential risk factors. This may include blood tests, imaging studies, and other assessments.4. Communication Between Specialists: It's crucial that your plastic surgeon and vascular specialist communicate with each other to coordinate care and ensure that the surgical plan is optimized for your specific medical condition.Always prioritize your safety and well-being, and follow the advice of your medical team. If there are concerns or potential risks, they may recommend alternative procedures or modifications to the surgical plan. Individual cases can vary, and the decision on whether to proceed with elective surgeries will depend on a thorough evaluation of your overall health and medical history. Overall I would not provide an elective surgery on a patient with May Thurner Syndrome due to the potential risks.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
Please talk to your primary doctor to get clearance for plastic surgery and then I suggest you to book a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss the best options for your goals.
Hope this is helpful. Good luck :)

Paul D. Feldman, MD · Answer

I would like to know the circumstances of your diagnosis of May-Thurner Syndrome and are you symptomatic.  If your compression and symptoms warrant intervention such as stent, I would recommend that procedure before the cosmetic surgery.  If a stent is not warranted, then I would recommend prophylactic anticoagulation with Lovenox in the perioperative period.

Mel T. Ortega, MD · Answer

Badwolf0010 Hi There , Thank you for your Question Many surgeons, including myself, offer online virtual consultations where you send us your photos and we can estimate the cost. I, like many surgeons, also offer free consultations so that you can be examined and given the most accurate quote

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You will want to first complete your scheduled tests and speak with the doctor managing your May Thurner Syndrome before considering surgery.  If you are a candidate and receive clearance you may wish to have your surgery done in stages due to risk.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

You will find that online consultants will not be your best resource when it comes to determining your risk factors for proceeding with mommy makeover surgery.  The doctors who have seen you will be in the best position to do so; if in doubt, you may wish to seek second opinion consultations with  well experienced specialists in your area.  If you do decide to proceed you will likely be best off staging the procedures;  increased length of surgery increases risk factors of thromboembolic phenomenon. Best wishes.

Jon Ver Halen, MD, FACS (license suspended) · Answer

Dear Badwolf,Hello and thank you for your excellent question. Provided that you are otherwise healthy, do not have a history of previous blood clots, and are cleared for surgery, then you should be safe to have your procedure performed. If you are looking for the safest procedure with longest lasting results, you should be evaluated for a No-Vertical-Scar breast lift technique. There are a number of no-vertical scar breast lift techniques, but my preferred technique is the Bellesoma Breast Lift technique. Our technique provides an exceptional breast lift, upper pole fullness, relief from neck and back pain, and no vertical breast lift scar. It uses a woman’s OWN breast tissue to produce an internal suspension technique, without the need for a breast implant. It does not disturb the nipple, areola, or breast glands, so sensation and the ability to lactate is preserved. It uses 3D scanning of your breasts and body to design a procedure specifically designed for YOU, and you alone. Finally, for patients who desire breast enlargement, it can be combined with fat grafting. It is best to answer your question during a face-to-face evaluation, when you can discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure, and you can have a physical examination to evaluate for that procedure. I recommend that you find a board-certified, or board-eligible plastic surgeon with whom you are comfortable. Be sure to have all of your questions answered during a face-to-face meeting with your surgeon, and review before and after pictures of similar patients whom have had this procedure. If you have any questions, call our office for assistance. Good luck!
  
Best,
  
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS
  
Harvard educated plastic surgeon
  
Texas “Top Doc” 2017, 2018
  
RealSelf100
  
America’s Top Plastic Surgeons, Consumer’s Research Council, 2010 – 2018
  
BeautyAdvisor Top Contributor

If I have May Thurner Syndrome is it safe to have a tummy tuck, breast lift and arm lift?

Answers (10)

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