Is It Possible to Have Tummy Tuck for a Patient with DVT?

Hello, and thank you for your important question regarding whether you can safely have a tummy tuck after experiencing a DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) following childbirth.

First, congratulations on your growing family. And second, you're absolutely right to bring this up now — it’s essential to approach elective surgery thoughtfully when you have a history of DVT.

A history of DVT does not automatically mean you cannot have a tummy tuck, but it does put you into a higher risk category for blood clot recurrence, which means extra precautions must be taken before, during, and after surgery. Safety must be the top priority.

Here’s what would typically be required:

You would need a full clearance from a hematologist or your primary care physician to assess your clotting risk.

You may need special blood tests to evaluate your current coagulation status.

If you are on blood thinners (like warfarin, Eliquis, or Xarelto), your medications would have to be carefully managed around the time of surgery under the supervision of your medical team.

During surgery and recovery, aggressive DVT prevention protocols would need to be in place — this includes sequential compression devices on your legs during and after surgery, early ambulation (getting you walking as soon as possible after surgery), and possibly short-term anticoagulation therapy after your procedure.

In some cases, patients with a significant DVT history are advised to have a filter placed in the inferior vena cava (IVC filter) temporarily, especially for major surgeries like a tummy tuck. This device can help prevent clots from traveling to the lungs, though it’s not necessary for every patient.

The good news is that many patients with a history of DVT have successfully undergone tummy tucks when these safety measures are followed and when their overall health is stable. The key is having a board-certified plastic surgeon who is extremely thorough about preoperative clearance and is comfortable working closely with your other healthcare providers.

Thank you again for your thoughtful question. Your caution is exactly what will lead you to a safe and successful journey.

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, MBA, FASMBS, FICS
(Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons; Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery; Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, and RealSelf Hall of Fame)

Before moving forward, make sure you consult with a highly experienced plastic surgeon, ensure all necessary medical clearances are obtained, and carefully review your surgeon’s before-and-after work and patient safety practices.

Having a previous DVT places you at significantly higher risk for another DVT with or without surgery. Prior to planning any subsequent surgery you should consult with a hematologist. There are certain genetic conditions that predispose you to a DVT such as Factor V Leiden that may need to be tested for prior to surgery. In addition depending on the extent of surgery certain prophylactic measures ranging from alteration in anesthetic technique, compression hose, serial compression devices, and anticoagulation may be warranted. The last of these may place you at higher risk for bleeding with subsequent need for transfusion.

With a history of a previous DVT I would proceed with caution.  You should have a full work-up by a hematologist and see what he/she recommends in terms of proceeding with the surgery and if so what type of prophylaxis they would recommend.