I have a breast augmentation scheduled. X Ray was normal but my EKG was not. will this make me ineligible for my surgery?

Question

I'm 25 years old, no prior health issues. Vegan (if that matters)

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

The uploaded image appears to show an ECG tracing, but a photo of the tracing is not enough to decide whether you are safe for anesthesia. An abnormal EKG does not automatically mean you cannot have breast augmentation, but it does mean the finding must be reviewed before elective surgery.

Your surgeon and anesthesia team should know exactly what was abnormal and may ask for a repeat EKG, lab work, medical clearance, or a cardiology opinion before proceeding. Being vegan usually does not by itself make you ineligible, but nutrition, anemia, electrolytes, and overall health still matter for surgery. If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, palpitations, or dizziness, do not wait for the surgery date; seek medical evaluation promptly.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi & thanks for your question. 
You need to contact your surgeon to find out if you need medical clearance to proceed with surgery. If your surgeon ordered the testing then she/he have the results.  Best wishes!

Lane Smith, MD · Answer

You were prudent in getting an EKG.  I don’t see any significant abnormalities.  You should let the anesthesiologist evaluate the EKG before having surgery.  Especially being that you are having elective plastic surgery.  Don’t be too cavalier. Best of luck!

Jose A. Munoz, MD · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!Your "abnormal" EKG will not necessarily not prevent the performance of surgery. However, it does necessitate a preoperative cardiology consultation to determine if these findings are of any clinical significance. Speak with your plastic surgeon regarding this matter. Best wishes...

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

HI Exuberant,

Your surgeon should have the EKG reviewed by a cardiologist unless your surgeon is a cardiologist.
The cardiologist or the internal medicine doctor can then decide if you need a further work-up.
You and your surgeon will feel better about going into the surgery once an expert can give his/her opinion on this study.
  Hope this helps a bit.

Best, 
Dr. Christine Rodgers

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

That’s a question you need to ask your surgeon. I suspect it won’t be an issue but your surgeon may have you see a cardiologist for clearance for the surgery

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Exuberant171520,
every plastic surgeon has his own preoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Brian Widenhouse, MD · Answer

Your surgeon will most likely require medical clearance before proceeding with an elective procedure.
Please discuss this with your plastic surgeon as well as with your PCP/cardiologist.
Best of luck!

Christopher J. Hussussian, MD · Answer

Hello
The determination for this will fall on your surgeon and your anesthesiologist. There is not universal agreement on what should or should not disqualify someone from surgery.
Christopher J Hussussian, MD

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Some people have abnormal EKG readings but are still fine to consider surgery.  Your surgeon should receive the results of your EKG and she/he will advise if it is safe for you to proceed.  In some cases, a visit to a cardiologist may be recommended.

I have a breast augmentation scheduled. X Ray was normal but my EKG was not. will this make me ineligible for my surgery?

Answers (13)

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