Female, 55 & tummy tuck 2 years ago, is there any chance of cancer from that surgery?

Dear Celebrated,

Thank you for reaching out with your question. I understand your concerns completely, and I want to reassure you that there's no direct evidence linking abdominoplasty with an increased risk of cancer. While surgery does come with risks like infection or hematoma, these are not related to cancer. Over time, what you might see is some scar tissue or changes around where you had surgery, but these aren't usually cancer-related.

Please do keep up with your regular health check-ups and be attentive to any changes in how you feel or how the surgical area looks. If you're still worried about cancer risks, it would be wise to speak with your healthcare provider or an oncologist for personalized guidance. Take care of yourself.

Thank you for your question regarding the long-term risks associated with tummy tuck surgery. Based on current medical knowledge, there is no evidence to suggest that a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, increases the risk of cancer. The procedure itself involves the removal of excess skin and fat, often with the repair of abdominal muscles, and is not associated with the development of cancerous cells.

However, there are a few important points to consider regarding any surgery and overall health:

All surgeries result in scar tissue, which is a normal part of healing. While scar tissue is not cancerous, excessive scar tissue, known as keloids or hypertrophic scars, can form in some individuals. This is not dangerous but can sometimes require management.

Regular check-ups and health screenings are important, especially as we age. Cancer risk is influenced by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposures, not by cosmetic surgeries like tummy tucks.

If you notice any unusual changes in your body, such as lumps, skin discoloration, or persistent discomfort near the surgical site, consult your doctor. These are not likely related to the surgery but should be evaluated.

Since you mentioned that you currently have no issues, you can feel reassured about the safety of your procedure. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and staying vigilant about routine health screenings are the best ways to minimize any future health risks.

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Dear Celebrated648270,
tummy tuck surgery will not cause cancer.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hello Celebrated648270, there's never been an association between this kind of surgery and cancer. However, the areas that are worked on can have many different things happen to them (abdominal wall, intraabdominal contents) which can appear on their own before, during or after surgery. If you experience any symptoms after your surgery, get an assessment because while this surgery shouldn't affect your chances of developing cancer, it doesn't remove the chances of having something else happen at the same time as healing from it.

Hello Celobrated,
There is no specific increased risk of any kind of cancer after having a tummy tuck, regardless of which version you have.

Thanks so much for your question,

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) itself does not cause cancer. The formation of scar tissue (fibrosis) is a normal part of the healing process. While rare, excessive scar tissue can cause discomfort or other issues, but it is not related to cancer

If you experience unusual symptoms such as persistent pain, swelling, lumps, or changes in the surgical area, it's essential to seek medical advice.

Regular follow-ups with your surgeon and primary care physician can help monitor your overall health and address any concerns promptly.

In summary, while a tummy tuck does not cause cancer, maintaining regular health screenings and consulting with your healthcare provider about any concerns is crucial for overall health and peace of mind.

Sincerely,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

Removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area does not increase risk of cancer. If you note changes, masses, abnormal swelling, or unexplained weight loss, seek the care of you physician, as there are malignancies that can occur in the abdomen unrelated to the tummy tuck,

Hello. There is no chance that a tummy tuck would eventually lead to cancer. You shouldn’t worry about cancer just because. But if you have any family history of cancer you should seek a doctor for an evaluation.

Best of luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Thank you for your query. I am not aware of any study showing increased risk of cancer from a tummy tuck. You should, however continue with your routine medical tests and screenings. All the best!

Hello! There is no chance that no matter what type of cosmetic surgery you have had, you cannot develop cancer from this surgery,

Developing cancer depends on other factors, both hereditary. There are several factors that can cause genetic mutations, including smoking, radiation, viruses, cancer-causing chemicals (carcinogens), obesity, hormones, chronic inflammation, and lack of exercise.

I am Doctor Manuel Díaz, Plastic Surgeon. I would love to help you. I perform surgeries at CECIP Plastic Surgery Clinic, in the Dominican Republic.