High potassium levels, can I still have surgery?

Question

I am 28 years old female, about to get rhinoplasty next Wednesday, went for a pre-op testing and was called back today to come back and redo my blood work, cause my potassium is high. Will that stop me from getting the surgery done? And if so should i be refunded the money i paid for the surgery? Thank you in advance.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It is important to make sure to look for the reason why there is a high potassium level , and to repeat the blood test just in case it was an error. It is simply not a good idea to place A patient under anesthesia for elective cosmetic surgery because potassium is very important to the physiology of the heart. For many before and after examples of closed rhinoplasty, please see the link below

Jonathan Sykes, MD · Answer

It is important to repeat the laboratory value to make sure that it was not a lab error or aberrant test.If the high potassium level persists, It is important to see an internist to diagnose the reason for the elevated potassium.  In all liklihood, the value is not a real problem.If there is a reason for the hyperkalemia, this problem should be addressed prior to undergoing elective surgery.

Australia Fragoso-Baez, MD · Answer

High potassium levels are present in some clinical condition as you are young it could a false result and that is why is they are calling you to redo the test, you should wait for the new results. good luck!

Somyos Kunachak, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Every once in a while, we see high level of potassium in a patient's blood work and then turns out normal on a follow up blood test. If the potassium level is confirmed to be high, you will first be referred to am internist. As for the payment, it should be refunded though usually, different institutions have different policy so you will have to ask your surgeon about it.

Donald Nunn, MD (retired) · Answer

You should repeat the lab work to rule out an error.  If it is still elevated your surgeon and anesthesiologist should guide you in the next step to work up the cause.  Good luck.  Donald R. Nunn MD  Atlanta Plastic Surgeon

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