I have a pacemaker and have had it since 1999. Can I get breast implants? (Photo)

Question

I’m a thin gal and my spouse and I’ve been talking about me getting breast implants. With me having a pacemaker is that even an option? I’m 5’2 104 pounds

Urmen Desai, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

I would first discuss this with your cardiologist.  Secondly, I recommend having your surgery performed in a hospital setting (not an outpatient surgicenter).  The implant selection should be based on a combination of your desired size, soft tissue dynamics, breast base diameter and skin elasticity.  I recommend an in-office examination as well as a detailed discussion with a surgeon who you are comfortable with.   Finally, make sure your surgeon is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
Best,Dr. DesaiBeverly Hills Institute for Aesthetic Plastic SurgeryHarvard Educated, Beverly Hills & Miami Beach TrainedDouble Board-Certified, Double Fellowship-Trained Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

The presence of a pacemaker does not prevent you from having a cosmetic procedure. You should get clearance from your cardiologist for the procedure and a magnet may have to be used to disable the pacemaker during the procedure, but this depends on what cardiac condition that you have and the specific type of pacemaker that you have.Good luck

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

Hi Darlia, Pacemakers are not incompatible with breast implants. As in all things, details matter. Pacemakers come in different varieties that are designed for different heart rhythm problems. There are basically two parts, the leads which attach to the heart itself and the generator which has the logic circuits and battery. We rarely need to address the leads.The generator often sits right where we place breast implants. This can cause two problems. The shape of the generator can alter the esthetic result of the augmentation. More importantly, electric energy (which we often use to control bleeding) can mess up the generator and effect the function of your heart. The first issue can be corrected by moving the generator to a different location, such as your lower abdomen. That has to be done with the assistance of your interventional cardiologist. All it takes is a longer lead extension and a little creativity. It is a hassle but if you need to replace the generator, a site re-position can be considered. If that's not too important to you, the augmentation can be performed with the generator in place. All generators have a default mode that can be turned on with a sterile magnet. As long as we prevent damaging the function of the pacemaker, it should not be a problem. It goes without saying that you need the approval of your cardiologist, not to agree with augmentation, but that you are a safe candidate for the surgery.

Douglas L. Gervais, MD · Answer

Dear Darlia,  Once your cardiologist has cleared you for elective surgery and you've been evaluated in person by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon you should be able to have a breast enlargement. Good luck. Dr. Gervais.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Darlia,
pacemaker is not a contraindication for a surgery but you will need to get a clearance from your cardiologist. 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

I have a pacemaker and have had it since 1999. Can I get breast implants? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: I Have a Pacemaker, Can I Have a BA?

Answer: I Have a Pacemaker, Can I Have a BA?

Answer: BA candidate

Answer: BA candidate

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I have a pacemaker and have had it since 1999. Can I get breast implants? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: I Have a Pacemaker, Can I Have a BA?

Answer: I Have a Pacemaker, Can I Have a BA?

Answer: BA candidate

Answer: BA candidate

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.