Tummy Tuck 67, Diabetes, and Glaucoma?

Thank you for your question and for providing your background. At 67 years old, with diabetes and glaucoma, it’s essential to carefully evaluate your overall health and the specifics of your conditions before undergoing a tummy tuck. Based on your description, a tummy tuck could significantly improve the appearance of your abdomen and your quality of life, but there are some important considerations to address.

Firstly, diabetes can affect wound healing and increase the risk of complications like infection and delayed recovery. To minimize these risks, your blood sugar levels must be well-controlled before and after surgery. Your plastic surgeon will likely coordinate with your primary care doctor or endocrinologist to ensure that your diabetes is managed optimally during this time.

Regarding glaucoma, steroids are sometimes used post-surgery to reduce inflammation, but their use is not always necessary. Many surgeons prefer non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for managing inflammation, especially in patients for whom steroids are contraindicated. This is a topic that must be discussed thoroughly with your surgeon and your eye doctor to plan an alternative anti-inflammatory strategy if needed.

Your age is not a contraindication for surgery, provided you are in good overall health. I have operated on many healthy patients in their 60s and beyond. Preoperative tests, including a comprehensive blood panel, an EKG, and possibly clearance from a cardiologist, will ensure you’re a safe candidate for surgery.

Finally, maintaining good communication with all your medical specialists is key. Your surgeon can develop a customized plan that accounts for your diabetes and glaucoma, minimizing risks and optimizing your outcome. With proper planning and an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, a tummy tuck can be safe and transformative.

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Thank you for the question! No, we do not usually prescribe any steroids pre or post surgery. I would recommend scheduling a consult with a board certified plastic surgeon like myself where we make a surgical plan that would be best for you and your goals!

I don't see any reason that you would need steroids for this surgery. As long as your diabetes is under control and you obtain pre operative medical clearance, you would be a good surgical candidate. From your description of your abdomen, you would be thrilled with this operation. I would consult with your plastic surgeon and review this procedure in detail.

Dear Merdena,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination.Your condisions should be well controlled prior to surgery. Generally speaking, there is no need for steroids during the surgery. 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

Hello and thank you for your question. Steroids would not be advised as a part of tummy tuck care. In fact, steroids effect your natural ability to heal, so that is never a good idea to combine steroid use and surgery. Making sure that your A1C is below 7 will improve your ability to heal as well. Good luck on your tummy tuck journey.