Can I get a breast lift if I have cirrhosis of the liver? (Photo)

Question

So I really am so confused. I’m a 49 yr old woman that is really unhappy with my breasts. I just want a little lift to build my confidence, nothing obvious to others but for me! Tge problem is I have cirrhosis of the liver. I’m monitored and have no medication

Semih Yildiz, MD, FEPOBRAS · Answer

The photos show breast heaviness and ptosis where a lift could improve shape, but the deciding issue is your liver safety rather than the breast appearance. Cirrhosis does not always mean surgery is impossible, but elective surgery can carry higher risks of bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, fluid problems, and anesthesia complications.

Before any breast lift, you would need clearance from your hepatologist and anesthesia team, with recent labs such as platelets, INR/PT, bilirubin, albumin, kidney function, and a Child-Pugh or MELD assessment. If the cirrhosis is well compensated and your tests are favorable, a carefully planned, limited procedure may be considered. If there is ascites, varices, abnormal clotting, low platelets, jaundice, or recent decompensation, cosmetic surgery should usually wait or be avoided.

Joel Patrick Maier, MD · Answer

If you have stable liver function and clearance from your liver specialist, then a breast lift if possible. I think you are a good candidate and would be happy with the results. It just depends on the discussion between the liver specialist and your surgeon. Thank you

Daniel Careaga, MD · Answer

Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver due to injury. It can be caused by many things but ultimately the problem is that scar tissue develops due to repetitive injury. The problem with cirrhosis is that your liver is responsible for making clotting factors which are important in the blood’s ability to clot. If you cannot form a clot, it can lead to serious surgical complications. You should probably have a conversation with your gastroenterologist as to how severe your cirrhosis is and see if it has affected your liver clotting ability.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! It looks like from your photos that you would be a great candidate for a Mastopexy procedure or breast lift. We would love to meet you in person or virtually to discuss your surgical options and obtain your health history. Your safety is priority for all elective procedures so after your healthy history is obtained, sometimes clearances are required from your providers to ensure surgery is appropriate. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon like myself to help you reach your goals and create a plan for you!

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

You’ll require clearance by your primary care physician, as well as a discussion of your condition with your plastic surgeon.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Cirrhosis can effect the production of clotting factors in your blood, depending on it’s severity.  This, and your overall health to be a good candidate for surgery, could be clarified with a visit to your primary care doctor for preoperative clearance.  If your labs are in normal range, there is no reason you shouldn’t proceed with your breast lift.  Best wishes.

Warren Schutte, MD · Answer

It is always a good idea to get surgical clearance from your specialist who cares for your condition. If your surgeon agrees that it is safe surgery, you should be able to enjoy your breast lift. It is important that you do not take any meds that are toxic to your liver during the surgical period.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You need medical clearance for 4 hours of general anesthesia. Once you have been cleared then you can undergo a breast lift. The lift technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method. This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage. Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

It will all depends on  how severe your cirrhosis is.  You may well be able to have it done if your doctors can agree that it would be safe

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You will first need to receive medical clearance from your primary care physician.  She/He may require labwork or other tests before granting clearance.  If given you can then schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.

Can I get a breast lift if I have cirrhosis of the liver? (Photo)

Answers (13)

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