Is breast implants after Pulmonary Embolism possible?

Question

I have been exploring the option of breast implants and was wondering if it is recommended since I have a history of pulmonary embolisms. I had all the genetic testing done to rule out any clotting issues and it was determined it was caused by my switch in Birth control (NuvaRing). I understand once you had them there is a possibility you can get them again, as well as using Lovenox after any surgery. Is it possibly for a surgeon to approve with my history?

Yannis Alexandrides, MD, FACS · Answer

The decision to undergo surgery ultimately lies with the surgeon who will need to understand the predisposing factors of pulmonary embolism, and if possible, take precautions to avoid this from happening again. It will be necessary for your plastic surgeon to have access to the Doctor who treated you for the pulmonary embolism and the notes on that matter.

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. The short answer is 'yes'. You can still have breast augmentation. Talk to you surgeon about risks and prevention strategies. Strategies to prevent DVT include early ambulation post op, pharmacological measures (subcutaneous heparin, etc) or mechanical with the use of SCD machines (intra-op and postop). Plastic surgeons typically determine the DVT risk using standardized formulas (e.g. Caprini score) and decide on the best regimen based on the patient's calculated risk. A discussion about DVT prophylaxis has to be an absolute part of initial consultation with the plastic surgeon. Best,
Pejman Aflaki, M.D.
  
Johns Hopkins-trained double board-certified plastic surgeon

Janet Woodyard, MD · Answer

Yes, you can undergo breast augmentation after a pulmonary embolism if the right precautions are taken. The 1st person you should check with is your hematologist to see what their recommendations are regarding this relatively short operation. Luckily you don't have an underlying genetic predisposition so your risks should be similar to the general population. Having had an embolism in the past, does increase your risk and that just needs to be taken into consideration.

Anoush Hadaegh, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. It sounds like you had a provoked event, essentially you did not have a genetic predisposition for clotting.Since the breast augmentation is a shorter operation and you can be mobile immediately, you can still have an operation with certain blood thinners. But I still think you need to be evaluated by a hematologist with set of recommendations for the operation.  I recommend hat you discuss all the pros and cons with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good Luck!

Michele A. Shermak, MD · Answer

It does sound as though you may be a candidate.There are certain inciting variables that lead to PE, like birth control, pregnancy, immobilizing joint surgery, for example. If those factors are no longer present, and you are at least 6 months out with a clear pulmonary workup, you are likely a good candidate for breast augmentation. Surgery typically takes 1-1.5 hours (short) and your mobility should not be hindered.I would recommend you see a board certified plastic surgeon - you can find one at plasticsurgery.org.

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

Breast implants and other cosmetic surgeries are possible in patients with a history of pulmonary emboli, but you will need to be off blood thinners for a period of time around your procedure. You should definitely get clearance from your hematologist and/or primary care physician prior to having the procedure.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear JandLmom,
It is hard to tell for sure without an examination. But, if you get a clearance from your doctor, you might be a candidate for breast augmentation. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question and glad to hear that you are doing well after your PE.  Because of the identifiable source of your PE, and with medical clearance by your hematologist, you should be able to obtain a breast augmentation.  Your surgeon and hematologist will need to work together to find the best care plan to ensure a repeat episode does not occur.

Adam Tattelbaum, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I am sorry to hear about your history of PE. The good news is that there was a specific cause that could be removed. Breast augmentation by itself  is low risk for PE. Your PS will need to review your information and possibly communicate with your Hematologist to be sure your surgery can be performed safely.Best wishes.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

Fortunately, the cause of your PE wasn’t genetic or intrinsic. That said, the first step should be to consult with your hematologist. If he or she agrees to discontinue your anti-coagulation, surgery may be possible.  I wouldn’t encourage you to plan any elective procedure without that approval.

Is breast implants after Pulmonary Embolism possible?

Answers (15)

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