Breast lift, implants and tummy tuck for a RMSF patient (sister to Lymes disease) safe?

Question

I was diagnosed in 2008 with Rocky Mountain Spotted tick fever ( sister to Lymes). I didn't have any of the visible symptoms. Physically; anxiety, dizziness , heart racing etc. Doxycycline w/ Anxiety meds as RX at the time. I still deal with fatigue & muscle soreness. When I have my standard blood w/u. My WBC is always slightly elevated. Has there been documentation of complications? Advice from Doctors & patients who have tick illnesses OR performed surgery on a patient post treatment ?

Luke J. Curtsinger, MD · Answer

I would discuss your current symptoms with an infectious disease doctor and get medical clearance before proceeding with elective surgery.  You need to be 'in the best shape possible' before proceeding. I am not sure that you are at your best yet.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

You should always be evaluated by your treating physicians to determine if you would be able to undergo elective surgery.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

ShawnaLee.    So sorry you have this medical problem, but I am not sure it would adversely affect your surgery.  You should consult with your infectious disease specialist first and ask about specific possible ramifications of this surgery. Your plastic surgeon will most likely request specific medical clearance from this doctor.  I recommend that your plastic surgeon and infectious disease doctor speak prior to your surgery. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck!

Paul Fortes, MD · Answer

Full Mommy Makeovers are big operations that should only be performed on healthy patients.  It sounds like you have not yet fully recovered from your RMSF.  If you are interested in having a Mommy Makeover, it is best to get medical clearance from the physicians treating your illness.  Also, it might be wise to staged the surgical procedures so that your recovery will be easier.  Consider starting with the breast surgery first, and see how you do.  Best of luck!

Jon A. Perlman, MD (retired) · Answer

You may not succeed in finding doctors with significant experience performing mommy makeover's on patients suffering from Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.  In general terms however someone suffering from anxiety, palpitations and fatigue is not an excellent candidate for elective plastic surgery especially not extended plastic surgery.  If your internist does approve you for anesthesia in the future you should consider separating the components of the procedure so your anesthesia is not prolonged.  Best wishes,Jon A Perlman M.D., FACSDiplomate, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)ABC-TV Extreme Makeover SurgeonBeverly Hills, CaliforniaIG: jonperlmanmd

Breast lift, implants and tummy tuck for a RMSF patient (sister to Lymes disease) safe?

Answers (5)