Tummy tuck and blood loss: how common are blood transfusions?

Question

I don’t accept blood transfusions, how common are these with tummy tucks or other similar surgeries? I wanted to have this done but if needing a blood transfusion is a likely possibility then it’s a deal breaker for me getting surgery.

James N. Romanelli, MD, FACS · Answer

This is extremely uncommon.  It is more likely if a patient has a hematoma (bleeding beneath skin flap) after a tummy tuck, but even than, not likely if identified and treated right away.Since the risk of a hematoma is greatest in the first 12 hours after surgery, I keep all of my fully tummy tuck patients overnight with a private duty nurse.Best of luck!Dr. Romanelli

Steve Merten, FRACS - Account Suspended · Answer

This is extremely unlikely. I have never had to give a blood transfusion for a standard abdominoplasty.
Good Luck
Dr Steve Merten, Sydney, Australia

Marc Pacifico, MD, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Many thanks for posting your question.Fortunately, it is extremely rare to require a blood transfusion in tummy tuck surgery - in fact, I cannot recall ever having heard of a patient needing one.However, all surgery carries a risk of bleeding, and in extreme cases (although extremely rare), it might be that a blood transfusion is considered.I would suggest discussing in person with a plastic surgeon to explore the optionsGood luck

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

In my practice, it is not common to use blood transfusions for tummy tuck and other body contouring procedures. However, I make sure all patients avoid blood thinners and have a high red blood cell count before entering the surgery suite. Bleeding is a risk of all operations so have a long discussion about your concern with your plastic surgeon.Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Scott Tucker, MD · Answer

I have been doing tummy tucks for 30 years and have only had one patient that required transfusion.  This was not during the surgery, but after a post op bleed requiring re operation.  I would feel comfortable operating on you assuming your pre operative labs were within normal limits.
Good luck,
Dr. T

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  If you are starting from a healthy position the need for a transfusion would be extremely rare. Hope this helps.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  When good technique is used, significant blood loss is extremely rare.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Adam Tattelbaum, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. During tummy tuck surgery the risk of bleeding is quite low, but bleeding can occur post operatively. While the risk is very low it would be prudent see that your blood count is normal before surgery.

Eric Desman, MD · Answer

This is a great question. Your chances of needing a blood transfusion after a tummy tuck are extremely low. I have been in  practice over 20 years and not only have none of my patients ever needed one, but to my knowledge, none of my friends and colleagues who are plastic surgeons have ever had a patient need one. That being said, here is the usual disclaimer: The risk is not zero. No surgeon can guarantee that you will not need a transfusion. You should talk to a board certified plastic surgeon and make sure you are completely comfortable with your surgeon before moving forward with any decisions. Good luck.

Karl William Schwarz, MD · Answer

Very very rare. Abdominoplasty  is not a high-risk operation for blood loss and patients requiring a transfusion would have to lose a significant amount of blood and that is just not likely at all. You can minimize your risk of bleeding by avoiding all nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory such as Motrin and Aleve and aspirin And stop taking any herbal supplements that may thin your blood.

Tummy tuck and blood loss: how common are blood transfusions?

Answers (20)

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