What are your thoughts on getting surgery after suffering from a pulmonary embolism?

The biggest risk factor for getting a pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis is personal history of having such an event. Additionally, tummy tuck is the highest risk procedure in plastic surgery for PE/DVT. If you can find a surgeon willing to operate, you will need to have testing and clearance by a hematologist (blood doctor) prior to your procedure. It is also likely you will need to be on blood thinners afterward. As always, please be sure to research who performs your procedure so you can increase the changes of having the best outcome.

Thank you for your question. As long as the patient is medically cleared it is typically not an issue. Your surgeon may choose to add additional pre and post operative medications for your to take along with being done in the hospital with an overnight stay. Each surgeon will have their own protocol they wish to follow. I would suggest seeing a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in person to evaluate you, discuss your medical history and make a recommendation. Getting up and moving around after surgery is super important as well. Best of luck to you.

You would definitely need evaluation by a hematologist and clearance before considering surgery. Early ambulation, shorter surgeries, venous compression devices prior to induction of general anesthesia, and anticoagulation in the appropriate candidates help manage this risk.

I would just tell you honestly.
After an ever of PE, not only thrombosis, PE!! I would not perform on you if you would be my sister.
Be encouraged. Life is much more important.
Dr. Cárdenas

Thank you for sharing your question. Due to your previous PE you are a high risk candidate for future episodes and you will most likely need to have a specific medication regimen to maintain your anticoagulation status in the perioperative period. Talk to your hematologist for surgical clearance and medication administration. Hope this helps.

Dear Angela_34,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. You will need to get a clearance from your doctor prior to surgery. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Your safety is always the number one priority during surgery. You will want to first speak to your hematologist about your desire for a tummy tuck. If surgical clearance is given you can meet with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation. It is best if you reduce your BMI prior to surgery. Those with a BMI above 30 are at higher risk for complications such as seroma, infection, and poor wound healing. It will also give your surgeon the opportunity to optimize your results.

Hello and thank you for your question. I would definitely let your PS know and he or she may ask for a medical clearance or note from your Dr. who treated the PE. You may have to take a mild blood thinner after surgery, just depends on your history and Dr.

The required preoperative clearance is from your pulmonary doctor, hematologist, primary doctor must be obtained. Postoperative anti-clotting medications injections are required. Office surgery is possible or outpatient overnight hospital surgery might be more recommended. Fees start from $8500-$15,000. Best to see private practice board-certified plastic surgeon in consultation.