Atherosclerosis Risk- Does having atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries mean you can't have surgery?

Question

Does having atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries mean you can't have surgery? If you weren't aware that you had it and had surgery would you die? I ask as it's apparently very common in older adults and most people have some plaque in their arteries so is it something that doesn't really contradict elective surgery unless its severe?

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

You are correct that virtually 100% of people have some plaque in their arteries as they age. Some people have more than others, depending upon how they live their life and the habits that they have. If you’re interested in having facial rejuvenation by a facelift, you should check with your primary care doctor and have the appropriate preoperative testing done to evaluate whether it is safe for you to undergo the procedure. If you’re cleared for surgery then you should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Best wishes.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

The plaque does not effect a Facelift surgery directly. However, any surgery is stressful and it can lead to a heart attack during or after surgery. The best approach is to get Cardiology Clearance to make sure your heart can handle the surgery.
Regards
Dr. J

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You may still be able to have surgery . I assume you have been to a cardiologist and would need clearance in order to proceed. If you’re in blood thinners they would need to be stopped but only with your doctors approval

Atherosclerosis Risk- Does having atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries mean you can't have surgery?

Answers (3)

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