Can you have a tummy tuck if you suffer from acid reflux issues?

Question

I want to have a tummy tuck but recently I had an episode of acid reflux that has made me wonder. When I get these GERD attacks I have the sensation of chest pressure and its harder to breath so wonder if I'm having the DR closed with no give in and I have the GERD attack what would be the effect? I'm afraid then I would not be able to breath with more compression. Or maybe is the severe DR that is causing the breathing issue?

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

Your safety is priority so It will be mandatory for you to attend to the Gastroenterologist in order to practice an endoscopy and find out what is the reason of the reflux. If it is a Hiatal Hernia, that should be repaired prior surgery, if it is caused by Helycobacter Pylori infection you have to have the proper treatment first,  if the cause is just unknown sphincter incontinence of the Hiatus or gastritis that should be treated or at least controlled prior surgery.In my opinion and in my hands is very difficult to achieve a very nice and small waist if I don't do a tight muscle repair, but the muscle repair can be done very loose or avoid it and that will prevent any issue about the reflux. Tummy Tuck (skin resection) by itself (without the muscle repair) does not affect the intrabdominal pressure, so it can not affect or make worst the reflux.You may help yourself having a very strict diet prior surgery to prevent any episode.Have a great journey.Dr.Cardenas

Jeremy Pyle, MD · Answer

It's a good question.  There is no reason to think that an abdominoplasty would be any less safe with a history of reflux. I think what you are getting at is that there would be more pressure after the stomach wall is tightened. It may be hard to believe but there is not any evidence that I am aware of that pressure in your abdomen goes up long term or that it causes worse or more frequent reflux.  There are, of course, a lot of factors that go in to the decision as to whether a person is a good candidate or not but that is not typically one of them. I would encourage you to keep doing the research you are doing and then make an appointment to see how you would be expected to do with that kind of surgery.  I would also encourage you to find someone in your area who does the surgery without drains and with exparel ( a three day anesthetic).  Both of those things suggest a modern approach to the abdomen and can make the surgery much easier on the patient.Best of Luck,Dr. Pyle

Eric T. Emerson, MD, FACS · Answer

Most patients with acid reflux can safely undergo a tummy tuck, however it is important that the reflux be evaluated prior to surgery.  It sounds as if your reflux is poorly controlled and you would benefit from a complete evaluation.  A gastroenterologist would be able to fully assess your problem and get you started on the appropriate treatment regimen.   Once you are well controlled, you may consider proceeding with the tummy tuck, but be sure to let your surgeon know.   Your treatment should continue throughout the pre- and post-operative time frame.  Best of luck!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I think that you are wise to be concerned about the gastroesophageal reflux issues and performing a tummy tuck operation. I think that you will be best off seeking consultation with your gastroenterologist and possibly having him/her communicate with your plastic surgeon prior to making any decisions. If you do decide to proceed, best to exercise caution when it comes to the “tightness” of the abdominal wall plication  perform for you. Best wishes.

Gordon Lewis, MD · Answer

I have not had any substantial complaints about GERD increasing after a tummy tuck.  I share your concern that the repair of the rectus diastasis could cause an increase in symptoms, but that should only be temporary at worst. I think you should not have any major issue and you are safe to proceed.

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