Can I have breast reduction surgery if I have heart arrhythmia?

Question

I am scheduled to have surgery next week for breast reduction and flying to Florida for that . I got my clearence from my primary doctor but yesterday they checked my pulse and made me wear something on my chest for 24 hours which they told me I might have heart arrhythmia. When I got clearence last week everything was ok with me . I can’t cancel surgery because I’m flying out and paid already . Is it dangerous for me and if so , what are the risks? I’m 56 years old .

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

Notwithstanding clearance from an internist, you need a full cardiac workup and clearance from a board certified cardiologist.  Why can’t this surgery be postponed? I would consider it malpractice per se to operate on you without the appropriate clearance, knowing of your aberrant cardiogram.  Safety needs to come first. I would also ask why you are going to Florida to have a procedure that is performed by basically every plastic surgeon in New York but already know the answer-price.  Cheap in the short run is not cheap in the long run. Also, it is legal in Florida for surgeons to “go bare” meaning not have malpractice coverage so I wonder if that was ever discussed with you.  Good luck!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.
 Breast reduction procedures can be done safely for patients with a variety of different “medical conditions”. Careful evaluation and treatment of the medical condition is necessary prior to determining the appropriate candidates for the  breast procedure.  In your case this would be best done by your cardiologist.  The physicians who know your situation best would be best suited  to discuss your suitability for the procedure and the potentially increased risks/complications that you should consider.  This process is called obtaining "medical clearance". These doctors will also be able to communicate with your plastic surgeon in regards to specific pre/intra/post operative considerations (including management of any medications…).   
 
Also, please make sure you are seeking consultation with  well experienced board-certified  plastic surgeons who preferably work with board-certified anesthesiologists in fully accredited surgery facilities.
I hope this helps.  Best wishes.

Jon Ver Halen, MD, FACS (license suspended) · Answer

Dear Victoria,Hello and thank you for your excellent question. If you have an arrhythmia, it is imperative to have this treated and/or managed appropriately before you decide to have any surgery. You may need to change your plans to safeguard your health.  Good luck!
  
Best,
  
Jon Ver Halen, MD FACS
  
Harvard educated plastic surgeon
  
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
  
Texas “Top Doc” 2017, 2018
  
RealSelf100
  
America’s Top Plastic Surgeons, Consumer’s Research Council, 2010 – 2018
  
BeautyAdvisor Top Contributor
  
Marquis Who’s Who Lifetime Achievement Award Winner

Can I have breast reduction surgery if I have heart arrhythmia?

Answers (3)

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