Will a history of bulimia cause problems during breast augmentation surgery?

Question

I struggled with bulimia for 4 years. Its something I have over come though and its been 1 month since the last time I threw up. I know bulimia can cause all kinds of health risks like electrolyte imbalances and cardiac arrhythmias. I am very healthy though, I've had my blood tested and I am not deficient in any nutrients (slightly anemic, but I take a iron supplement now). Will I experience any complication during and after surgery considering just one month ago I was bulimic?

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your 1 month anniversary. Provided that you have researched and found the right Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to perform your augmentation you need to be completely honest. Your surgeon will be able to walk you through the surgery, the recovery and the list of complications that can occur with any surgery. I cannot stress enough how important the honesty between you and your surgeon is. I hope this helps and best of luck.

Armando Soto, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi there-Provided you are now in a better place with regard to your relationship with food, and that this healthy relationship remains stable over time, there should be no reason you cannot have a safe and happy experience. By far the most important decision ahead of you is who to allow to perform your surgery- be sure you select the best surgeon based on the right priorities. Your safety and happiness will depend on it.

Edwin C. Pound, III, MD · Answer

Anorexia and bulimia are beyond the scope of my experience.  From a physical standpoint, as long as you are currently physically healthy, I see no reason why you could not undergo a breast augmentation procedure.  My concern is that anorexia/bulimia are tied into body image issues.  I do not know what effect breast augmentation would have on this.  Again, out of my field of expertise.  I don't know if you were helped in overcoming your bulimia by a professional, but I think it would be worth discussing this with a mental health professional trained to deal with body image issues before proceeding.

Asif Pirani, MD, FRCS(C) · Answer

You need to have a thorough examination and bloodworm to ensure that you are ok for surgery.  It is up to your PS and anesthesiologist to clear you for surgery.

Victor Ferrari, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your honesty.  Physically, you sound fine to have surgery.  You would also benefit from multivitamins (that you get from a natural food store; not drug stores).  My office would be glad to give you specific info if you like.   If you are in a good place emotionally, then you should be safe to proceed with breast augmentation.

Will a history of bulimia cause problems during breast augmentation surgery?

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Will a history of bulimia cause problems during breast augmentation surgery?

Answers (6)

Answer: BBA

Answer: BBA

Answer: Breast augmentation with eating disorder

Answer: Breast augmentation with eating disorder

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Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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