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!

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

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

I am appreciate your concerns however protocol differs from surgeon to surgeon but generally speaking, medical clearance is not always needed, especially if there are no significant medical issues. However if high blood pressure or other medical problems exist, it is always a good idea to have your medical doctor perform a check up or clearance prior to surgery to be certain that you are healthy enough to undergo the procedure safely. 
Anesthesiologists are usually concerned about history of asthma or other breathing issues and plastic surgeons usually use utilize board-certified anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist, either of which are extremely well trained. Best of luck.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Your surgeon should be looking at your complete medical history in order to ensure your safety with any procedure.  As a result if you have preexisting medical conditions being managed by other physicians, then it is best to obtain medical clearance from them, as well as from the anesthesiology group who will manage your procedure.  Hope this helps.

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.

Abeer Sawwaff, MD · Answer

That is an important question, in my case as a surgeon I require a complete blood work, urine test , breast ultrasound, and a medical clearance , and depending on the age of the patient or if is smoker I require a chest x ray , I also perform drug and nicotine tests before surgery and if everything is Ok, I proceed with the surgery.

James Hoyt, MD (retired) · Answer

Yes, obtaining medical clearance from a doctor is often required before undergoing surgery. This ensures that you are in good health and can tolerate the surgical procedure and anesthesia. The specific requirements may vary based on the type of surgery and your individual health condition. It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations.

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

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