Can I Have Hysterectomy and a Tummy Tuck at the Same Time?

Yes, in appropriately selected patients, a hysterectomy and tummy tuck can often be performed during the same surgery. Whether combining the procedures is right for you depends on your overall health, BMI, medical history, the reason and type of hysterectomy being performed, and the anticipated length and complexity of the surgery.

One advantage is having one anesthesia and one overall recovery period. However, combining procedures can mean a longer operation, so we carefully consider risks such as bleeding, infection, wound-healing problems, fluid collections and blood clots. Your recovery also needs to account for both the internal healing following a hysterectomy and the abdominal wall and skin healing following a tummy tuck.

Insurance is another important consideration. If your hysterectomy is medically necessary and authorized by your insurance company, your health insurance may cover some or all of the costs associated with the hysterectomy according to your individual plan, deductible and benefits. A tummy tuck performed for cosmetic reasons is generally not covered by insurance, so you would typically be responsible for the plastic surgery portion and any associated cosmetic fees. Our office can help explain which fees relate specifically to your tummy tuck, while your gynecologist and insurance company can help determine coverage for the hysterectomy.

So how do you schedule surgery when two different doctors are involved? Start by discussing your plans with both your gynecologist and your Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon. Each surgeon will need to evaluate you and determine that you are an appropriate candidate. If both surgeons agree that combining the procedures can be done safely, the two offices can work together to coordinate the surgical date, operating room, anesthesia and postoperative care.

For the right patient, combining a hysterectomy and tummy tuck can offer the convenience of addressing two concerns with one trip to the operating room and one recovery. The decision, however, should always be based first on what can be accomplished safely.