Is it Possible to Have a Tummy Tuck if I Have an Arrhythmia?

The gold standard of arrhythmia diagnosis is an EKG.  "Sinking feelings" in the chest may or may not be related to the heart rhythm.  At 35, cardiac issues are unlikely.  But it is wise to sort these issues out prior to surgery.  Even if your surgery must be delayed, I would attain a thorough workup.  Because this surgery is elective, risks should be absolutely minimized.  Good luck!!

Many patients who are preparing for procedures under general anesthesia have some health issues, including heart conditions or even arrhytmias. In that case your surgeon should probably ask you to see your primary physician for surgery clearance. Usually that requires blood test and EKG done within 6 months before the surgery. Your primary physician will decide if you can undergo general anesthesia surgery based on your overall health history and results of the performed tests.  Or even consult a cardiologist. Please talk to your surgeon and  he will guide you through all your concerns and help you make the right decision The most important rule is safety of the patient . If everythings checks out and youyr condition is optimized before suurgery you might be a very good candidate for the surgery

Thank  you for the question.

Yes, tummy tuck procedures can be done safely for patients with a variety of different “medical conditions”. Careful evaluation and treatment of the medical condition is necessary prior to determining the appropriate candidates for the tummy tuck procedure.  In your case this would be best done by a cardiologist.

Also, please make sure you are seeking consultation with  well experienced board-certified  plastic surgeons who preferably work with board-certified anesthesiologists.

 I hope this helps.

Tummy tucks can be performed on patients with arrhythmia, but it is extremely important to determine the cause, severity, and treatment of the arrhythmia first.  Make sure your PS knows about this condition and he/she will surely encourage you to have a full workup by a cardiologist.  There are many reasons why people develop these abnormal heart rythms and most can be treated medically.  Once you know more about your specific type of arrhthmia the cardiologist can discuss any elective surgery with your PS. 

Your instincts are correct, and the only sensible alternative is to contact your primary doctor and have the EKG to confirm that everything is a go for surgery. It may be anxiety, but best practice tells us we need to know. If the time pressure is concerning you, reschedule your procedure.
Best of luck,
peterejohnsonmd

Since a tummy tuck is elective surgery, you will most probably need to cancel your surgery until a diagnosis can be made of your arrhythmia. You don't want to take major risks particularly if the rhythm is not a very benign one. Notify your plastic surgeon of this issue immediately.

Your PCP may find something on your EKG but ultimately you may even require a monitor being placed for a day or 2 to track these abnormal beats. They could represent what is called a PVC or even a PAC. Caffeine consumption can be associated with this issue.

At your age, although the risks for heart problems are low, they are not absolutely zero. A cardiologist may ultimately be needed to make the diagnosis and initiate treatment if warranted (including stopping drinking Starbucks coffee!).

If you have an irregular heart beat that is happening with regular frequency you really to have an evaluation by a cardiologist PRIOR to surgery.  Many patients have extra heart beats that are normal, these are called PVCs.  They occur at unpredictable times and most patients do not know they have happened.  They are harmless, however, there are other causes and patterns of irregular heart beat that must be addressed and evaluated.

Listen to that inner voice and have it checked out prior to any elective surgery.

This certainly does sound like anxiety, particularly in a 35 year old who has given no prior cardiac history.  It is best however to have this completely checked out before surgery. Good Luck

You are correct to go to your PCP for a workup.  It is also important that your surgeon knows of your situation.  Make sure you have an adequate workup.  Any elective surgery can always be postponed.

Anxiety would not be causing an abnormal rythm for three months.  You may be having PVC's and it would be best to have your PCP evaluate the situation. Make sure your surgeon (not just the nurse) knows of your situation.