Can I have rhinoplasty if my hemoglobin is low and I'm slightly anemic?

Question

Hi, I am having rhinoplasty for a deviated septum 10 days from now and found out that my hemoglobin is 10.1, my iron is 18, and my hematocrit is 34.2. Is it possible to remedy this with iron, Vit C and B or should I postpone the surgery?

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear Francinefitz,My recommendation is to first get the anemia under control before having an elective surgery as bleeding is a complication of rhinoplasty although rare. Iron supplements should help with iron-deficiency anemia however I would consult with your primary physician to determine what is causing the anemia before having rhinoplasty. Best regards,Nima Shemirani

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Although uncommon, bleeding is the most common complication associated with septorhinoplasty surgery, so we may require normal levels before nose job surgery. If your iron level is low (lower normal is 40micrograms/deciliter), iron deficiency anemia may be treated with iron supplements. The most common cause of  iron deficiency anemia may be heavy menses, and if that's the case, your GYN doctor may be worth consulting. If you do not experience heavy menses, you may benefit from a GI workup to determine the cause of your anemia before considering elective surgery. Hope this helps you. Dr Joseph

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear francinefitz,
anemia should be treated before the surgery. Patients which suffer from anemia have higher operative and postoperative risk. I would suggest you to check it with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

William Portuese, MD · Answer

It is important to know WHY you are anemic and try to get that under control before a rhinoplasty procedure.  Most patient do very well with slight anemia, as long as there is not the rare complication of a severe nosebleed

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear francinefitz, I would suggest speaking with your surgeon and he/she will place you on the proper supplements/medications and will redraw your lab work for a pre-operative screen. If the surgeon and anesthesiologist are not comfortable with your levels you will likely be referred to another specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment prior to your surgery. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Can I have rhinoplasty if my hemoglobin is low and I'm slightly anemic?

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Answer: Can I have a rhinoplasty if I am slightly anemic?

Answer: Can I have a rhinoplasty if I am slightly anemic?

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Can I have rhinoplasty if my hemoglobin is low and I'm slightly anemic?

Answers (5)

Answer: Can I have a rhinoplasty if I am slightly anemic?

Answer: Can I have a rhinoplasty if I am slightly anemic?

Answer: Rhinoplasty and Anemia

Answer: Rhinoplasty and Anemia

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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