Will having a low heart rate be a problem when going under general anesthesia?

Having a low resting heart rate, known as bradycardia, may not be an issue on its own when going under general anesthesia, especially if your blood pressure is normal and you have no other heart-related symptoms. A resting heart rate under 60 can be normal for some individuals, particularly those who are physically fit. However, it's important to inform your anesthesiologist about your heart rate so they can monitor you closely during surgery. They will assess your overall heart function and tailor anesthesia management to ensure your safety during the procedure.

Hello Michelle and thank you for your question.

A low heart rate is often seen in healthy, athletic individuals. However, it can sometimes be associated with cardiovascular issues. In my practice, I always have patients cleared by their primary care physician, and in the case of possible cardiac issues, a cardiology clearance is also necessary. The anesthesiologist at the hospital would also have to clear you in the pre-hospital screening process and before surgery.

With proper preoperative precautions as above, your heart rate is unlikely to be a significant issue, but you should always be safe and address this well in advance with your plastic surgeon, your primary care physician (and possible cardiologist), and the anesthesiology team.

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Good luck.

Mark K Markarian, MD, MSPH, FACS
Harvard-trained Board Certified Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon