Tummy Tuck with meniscus tear?

Question

I am booked for a tummy tuck and breast lift in a week. A few weeks ago I damaged my knee during exercise (no pain during incident and continued to walk after). It started swelling, with very mild to no pain. It has been MRI confirmed as a lateral miniscus tear. I have emailed the surgery but it is Friday so won’t hear back until Monday. Is it likely that the surgeon will agree to the surgery with this new diagnosis? I am 42, healthy, no underlying conditions, non smoker/drinker.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There are a few factors that will influence if it is okay for you to proceed with the planned tummy tuck and breast lift.  Are you requiring blood thinning medications for the swelling in your knee?  These will have to be stopped for a period of time prior to surgery.  Also are you able to walk at will without issues on your knee?  Ambulation is very important after a tummy tuck to prevent developing blood clots.  Are you able to wait for several weeks or longer to recover from your tummy tuck before having your meniscus repaired?  If you haven't required blood thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc) and can walk freely on your injured knee you may be able to have surgery as planned.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding your upcoming tummy tuck and breast lift, as well as your concerns about your recent meniscus tear. Based on the information you provided, it is possible for your surgery to proceed, but several factors will need to be carefully considered to ensure your safety and optimal recovery.

Meniscus tears are common, particularly in active individuals, and they do not directly impact the areas involved in a tummy tuck or breast lift. However, your overall mobility and ability to recover after surgery are critical. If your knee injury significantly limits your ability to walk or move comfortably, this could complicate your recovery. After a tummy tuck, maintaining mobility is crucial to prevent complications such as blood clots. If walking is challenging or painful, your surgeon might recommend delaying the procedure until your knee is more stable.

Additionally, even though you describe your knee swelling and pain as mild, managing inflammation and discomfort during your recovery could become more difficult if you're dealing with pain from both the knee and the surgical sites. It's also important to consider your positioning during surgery. Tummy tucks and breast lifts require you to remain on the operating table for an extended period, and if your knee cannot tolerate this positioning comfortably, it could exacerbate your injury. Discussing these concerns with your surgeon ahead of time will help ensure proper adjustments are made.

Another important factor is the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a concern for all surgical patients but may be heightened in your case due to a lower limb injury. Your surgeon may recommend wearing compression stockings or taking other preventive measures to reduce this risk.

To move forward, it’s essential to communicate with your plastic surgeon about your meniscus tear as soon as possible. They will evaluate whether the injury poses a risk to your surgery or recovery. Additionally, consulting with your orthopedic specialist is recommended to ensure your knee is stable enough for surgery and to discuss any specific precautions you might need. If your surgery proceeds, adhering strictly to your surgeon's post-operative instructions and prioritizing mobility within your limits will be key to a successful recovery.

In summary, since your symptoms appear mild, it’s likely that your surgeon will proceed with the planned procedure. However, this will ultimately depend on the assessment of your overall health and your ability to recover safely. I hope this helps clarify your concerns, and I wish you the best with your surgery and recovery.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

The decision for surgery, including whether to proceed with surgery for a lateral meniscus tear, typically depends on several factors, including the severity of the tear, your symptoms, and your overall health.

Here are some points to consider:

Severity of the Tear:

The extent and location of the lateral meniscus tear play a role in the decision-making process. Some tears may respond well to conservative treatments, while others may require surgical intervention.
Symptoms:

If you are experiencing persistent pain, swelling, locking of the knee, or difficulty with knee movement, surgery may be considered to address these symptoms and prevent further damage.
Conservative Treatment Options:

Before opting for surgery, your surgeon may explore conservative treatment options. This could include physical therapy, medications, and activity modification.
Your Overall Health:

Being healthy and having no underlying conditions is generally positive for considering surgery. Your surgeon will likely take your overall health into account when making recommendations.
Surgeon's Evaluation:

Your surgeon will thoroughly review your MRI results, assess your symptoms, and consider your overall health before making a recommendation for surgery. They may also discuss the potential benefits and risks of surgery.
Communication with Your Surgeon:

It's important to communicate openly with your surgeon. If you have concerns or questions about the diagnosis or treatment options, make sure to discuss them during your consultation.
Given that it's a Friday and you might not hear back until Monday, you may want to consider reaching out to the surgeon's office again on Monday to inquire about the next steps. They should be able to provide more information about the recommended course of action based on your specific case.

Ultimately, the decision for surgery is highly individual and depends on various factors. Always rely on the guidance and expertise of your healthcare team, and make sure to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about the best approach for your situation.

Joshua T Halka, MD · Answer

Your knee injury shouldn't be an issue. Sometimes if someone has an active infection or a new prosthetic in their knee, surgery may be a bad idea, but in your case you should be good to go.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your query. Walking soon after tummy tuck and breast lift is important. If you are walking fine you may be able to keep your appointment for surgery, if your surgeon agrees. The procedures are quite extensive and a medical clearance will be important. Please discuss all your concerns with your surgeon before proceeding with surgery. All the best!

Tummy Tuck with meniscus tear?

Answers (9)

Answer: There is no reason you cannot have surgery with a knee injury

Answer: There is no reason you cannot have surgery with a knee injury

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Answer: Tummy Tuck with meniscus tear

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Tummy Tuck with meniscus tear?

Answers (9)

Answer: There is no reason you cannot have surgery with a knee injury

Answer: There is no reason you cannot have surgery with a knee injury

Answer: Tummy Tuck with meniscus tear

Answer: Tummy Tuck with meniscus tear

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.