What type of bloodwork do i need before having tummy tuck and liposculpture?

Considering having a full abdominoplasty done overseas is a big step and I only hope the place chosen for the surgery is a safe and fully accredited facility. On many occasions patient’s decision to travel to another country for plastic surgery is a cost driven only. Many patients forget this type of procedure requires many follow up visits.  Especially the first couple weeks after the procedure is done can be quite intensive as far as recovery for many patients.  Make sure you can see your surgeon as often as you can for the first at least two weeks  Scheduling the surgery requires good research on patient’s part. It is extremely important to check surgeon’s credentials, experience and also results of his work.  Hopefully you did follow through with the above. What is really concerning -you should be informed what is required as far as medical clearance for your procedure.  Are you healthy?  What type of medications you take on daily bases.  What are the anesthesia guidelines for this specific country and facility?  Please ask all important questions so your procedure is a safe one. I hope you will make a right decision.

In a perfectly healthy 20 year old woman who wants a tummy tuck, I do not order any labs as this just drives the cost up with little benefit.  In a 50 year old woman with multiple medical problems, there is a long list of tests I would run but I tailor those tests to the patient's medical history.  Unfortunately without knowing your age, weight, medical and surgical history and examining you, I cannot tell you what tests should be done.

     I would give a call to the plastic surgeon who will be performing the surgery to determine these items.  The tests needed will vary with age, current medical problems, and personal preference to some extent.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA