Is a CT scan following a tummy tuck safe?

Question

I had a tummy tuck, muscle repair and umbilical hernia repair preformed just over a year ago and have since developed a suspected hernia LRQ. Given the shifting of anatomy a tummy tuck causes, the dr would like to confirm with CT. Is there anything that would contradict a CT scan from my tummy tuck (suture material, etc)? It's a silly question but I'm pretty worried

Benjamin Mandel, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. History of standard tummy-tuck is not a contraindication for CT scanning of the abdomen and pelvis. Best of luck!

Shlomo Widder, MD · Answer

Dear Kitty,   Front and side view pictures would have been helpful. It is very unlikely that you have a hernia at the LRQ from the tummy tuck, unless you had Appendectomy in the past and the incision in the fascia was not repaired.   If you have a bulge in the LRQ, it is ok to get imaging studies, to help identify the cause for it. CT is fine, however , MRI is a better study for soft tissue problems and there is less radiation.   Always, consult with experienced board certified plastic surgeons who operate in accredited surgery center for your safety. Most importantly, check the before and after pictures in the photo gallery, to make sure that they are numerous, consistent and attractive with flat stomach, tight and youthful looking skin, nice belly button, improved body posture and low scar.                          Best of luck,                                             Dr Widder

Marc DuPéré, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Yes, it is safe to have a CT scan after a tummy tuck.  CT scan have very few contraindications WHEREAS MRI have more contraindications as any metal in the body needs to be disclosed to the radiologist.Kind regards,Dr. Marc DuPéré, aesthetic plastic surgeon

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  There is no contraindication to receiving a CT scan after a tummy tuck procedure.  Despite the muscle repair/tightening a radiologist will be able to appropriately diagnose any hernia.  Best wishes.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Hello2kitty4,no, tummy tuck is not a contraindication for a CT scan. A CT scan should be safe for you. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It should be ok to have a CT after a tummy tuck to check for a hernia.  Best of luck..................

Paul C. Dillon, MD · Answer

The only contraindication is if you are allergic to dye that may be given.  You should also ask the technician who is doing the CT scan.  It is a safe procedure with the only exposure being radiation.  
Best

Erica Anderson, MD · Answer

There is no reason you cannot have a CT scan because of your history of a TT. I hope you don't have a hernia. Best wishes.

Jacob G. Unger, MD · Answer

A CT scan should absolutely be safe after abdinoplasty or "tummy tuck". An Imaging study should have no impact on your surgical result.  There is always a question regarding the use of contrast dye and its impact on the kidneys,  but in individuals with normal kidney function this too is not an issue. Good luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There should be no concern for you to undergo a CT scan even though you've had a tummy tuck.  You may want to mention your surgery to the doctor who ordered the test.  Best wishes.

Is a CT scan following a tummy tuck safe?

Answers (12)

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