I have significant ITP (thrombocytopenia). My platelets are usually in the 60s. Am I a candidate for liposuction?

Question

Jeffrey D. Wagner, MD · Answer

Given your description, you are probably not an ideal candidate for elective major plastic surgery.  However, you may still be able to do careful, limited liposuction in a conservative manner.  It will depend on your hematologist's opinion, as well as your platelet function.  I recommend consultation with your hematologist, and an experienced board certified plastic surgeon for their input.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, if your hematologist is okay with it and you are doing smaller areas,  patients with ITP have low counts but often high functioning platelets. Good Luck.

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Given your platelet count, I would not feel safe performing liposuction.  A platelet count around 50 or less is critical and unsafe to have elective surgery done.  Even though you are at 60, that is still pretty low.  Although your hematologist may think other wise and may have a recommendation how to temporarily bring up your platelet count before the surgery, this is a purely elective procedure which can do lead to a major complication for you, bleeding.I would discuss this with your hematologist first and make sure he is aware exactly the procedure and the amount of liposuction that is going to happen.Hope that helps.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear kgodoy82,as long as you get a clearance from your haematologist you might be a candidate for a surgery. 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

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

As long as you are cleared by your hematologist, you can have liposuction. For best results with liposuction, I recommend a hi definition procedure like VASER liposuction. I use VASER HI DEF with ThermiRF/J Plasma/Renuvion/InMode BodyTite and fat grafting to get the most fat removal, skin tightening, contour and definition. This combination will give you the most toned result. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a hi definition physique expert. Best, Dr. Emer

I have significant ITP (thrombocytopenia). My platelets are usually in the 60s. Am I a candidate for liposuction?

Answers (5)