Will a low platelet count keep me from having my breast augmentation?

Question

My BA is in 10 days and I recived a call saying my platelets were low and needed more blood work. The order says CBC W/DIFF . SO complete blood count with differentials??? What will this tell the surgeon? Will I need to postpone my surgery??

Brian C. Reuben, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The most important question is what the platelet count is.  No, a low platelet count will not prevent you from having surgery.  >50,000 is still very reasonable.  However, a very low count, typically <20,000 is definitely something that needs to be investigated.  Your surgeon seems to be doing the right move, which is getting a CBC to evaluate the true platelet count.  Best of luck.

Clark Schierle, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Low platelets can lead to more bleeding during surgery. Our cutoff is 100K but each surgeon will have different levels of comfort. You should follow your surgeons recommendations for maximum safety.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

If your platelets are low, your body may not be able to stop bleeding in a normal amount of time.  That can lead to increased bleeding during and after surgery, increasing the risk of a hematoma or contracture down the line.  Your surgeon should check your coagulation panel ( a PT/PTT/INR test) and your bleeding time.  These are both blood tests and can show whether your low platelet count has any effect on your bleeding.  I would be very cautious with proceeding without more information.  I hope this helps.

Josh Olson, MD · Answer

It depends. What is your platelet count? If its borderline low you are probably fine. If it truly is low then it may be wise to see a hematologist prior to surgery as bleeding may be a higher risk. A simple history may give you the answer regarding prior menstrual cycles with heavy bleeding? do you bleed excessively if cut? do you bruise easily? If the answer is yes to these be cautious. A CBC only give you a platelet count. There are other tests that actually measure your clotting time which is only needed if you have some underlying genetic disorder. good luck

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

Low platelet counts can increase the risk of bleeding at the time of surgery and postoperative hematoma.  There are a number of causes including laboratory error, so the first step is to repeat the study, and look more thoroughly at your other blood parameters including white blood cell count.  It is important to make sure that there are no other health issues. You need to discuss this with your surgeon, but it is very important to make sure there are no other health issues, and that your ability to clot is normal. It is always better to postpone elective surgery if there are any unresolved health issues.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Low platelet levels could bring bleeding issues during surgery.  I would advise speaking with your surgeon regarding this matter and he/she can share what the next step for you should be.  Safety is always the first priority in any surgery.

Brian Coan, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your
question and I'm sorry that the platelet count has you wondering about your
upcoming surgery.  I strongly urge you to speak directly with your plastic
surgeon – he or she will appreciate the open communication and they should be happy
to discuss the risks and benefits of any procedures.  I wish you all the
best.

Douglas Leppink, MD · Answer

The first priority for any Plastic Surgeon is patient safety. As we evaluate each patient prior to surgery we are checking specific indicators of potential problems in surgery. A low platelet level can increase your risk of bleeding during surgery or after the surgery itself. Bruising may also be worse. A low platelet count may be caused by mild illness but may also indicate other illnesses that have effects on healing and bleeding risk. Safety is our first priority, and if delaying surgery for a short time is necessary please understand that the decision is made with your safety in mind.

Kevin Maguire, MD · Answer

Platelets are very important in clot formation and the ability to stop bleeding. If your platelets are low this could led to bleeding problems at surgery or hematoma formation after surgery. Platelets also play a role in initial wound healing. First, recheck your count to see if it is really low or just lab error. If its low, postpone your operation and see your healthcare team for proper evaluation. Good luck and be well..

Christine Sullivan, MD (retired) · Answer

Safety First!!  Contact your board certified plastic surgeon to determine the next steps. Best of luck to you!

Will a low platelet count keep me from having my breast augmentation?

Answers (11)

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