Do you have to get medical clearance from doctor before surgery?

Question

Do you have to get medical clearance from doctor before surgery? How do surgeons know if your healthy enough to with stand a tummy tuck or mommy make over? I plan to stop smoking hookah completely two month before surgery and I had high blood pressure two year ago but I no longer have it or take medication. What do the anesthesiologists look for to confirm your healthy? Do all plastic surgeons use board certified anesthesiologist?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Once you have scheduled your surgery a board certified plastic surgeon (BCPS) may ask you to have your PCP or a specialist who is treating you provide a letter of medical clearance for surgery. If you have a history of medical illness, are over 55 years old and are taking prescription medications for a medical illness your BCPS request that you see your PCP to obtain medical clearance to have elective plastic surgery.
In older patients with medical problems or history of medical problems, it is reasonable to obtain specific lab results. The surgeon you select should know everything about your past medical and surgical history and be able to make a determination about what labs should be ordered, the need for EKG, the need for medical clearance, the need for anticoagulation, the appropriateness of the surgical intervention based upon the risk factors and current physique, etc.
My AAAASF accredited surgery center uses board certified anesthesiologists.

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Yes, you do need a medical clearance from your primary care physician to undergo plastic surgery. I recommend you schedule a consult for a proper evaluation. Please always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take care, Dr. Moises Salama, board certified plastic surgeon.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi & thanks for your question.
You will only need medical clearance if you have medical issues.  Typically you will have bloodwork done prior to having surgery.  Some surgeons use board certified anesthesiologists, some use  a nurse  anesthetist. Both qualified.  Check with your surgeon for which he/she uses. Best wishes!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

During your visit with your surgeon your medical history will be reviewed and discussed.  It is important that you are honest and thorough when reporting your health history.  Based on the information exchanged your surgeon will determine if clearance is needed or if any further tests/labs are recommended.  It is unique to each patient's circumstances.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear HailieM,
every plastic surgeon has his own preoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. Generally speaking, most patients don't need clearance prior to surgery. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Do you have to get medical clearance from doctor before surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Medical clearance

Answer: Medical clearance

Answer: Preoperative protocol

Answer: Preoperative protocol

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Do you have to get medical clearance from doctor before surgery?

Answers (9)

Answer: Medical clearance

Answer: Medical clearance

Answer: Preoperative protocol

Answer: Preoperative protocol

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

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