Can I get rhinoplasty surgery if I have low white blood cell count?

Question

I've been looking into getting rhinoplasty and possibly lower blepharoplasty surgery, I have two consultations in the next month but I'm unsure if my bloods will be a problem. I saw my gp in March 2023 where he ordered some blood tests, my white cell count and neutrophil count was a little low so he's had me repeat them every few months since then and they've all been around the same level, I've also had other tests to rule out anything sinister. Gp doesn't see a problem with me getting surgery.

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

A slightly low white cell count may be a normal baseline and associated with normal response to challenges of surgery.

If you do not have a history of repetitive or slow healing infections or slow healing wounds, it may be that this is normal and functioning fine for you.

I would suggest however that proceeding to surgery should involve an overnight stay in hospital and 24 hours of intravenous antibiotics rather than day-case surgery and oral antibiotics only to include margin of protection within a sensible range.

It is also fair to say that probably many younger patients have surgery safely and simply do not know whether their white cell count is below average because they have never tested it.

Andrew Miller, MD · Answer

Some people have a natural lower white blood cell count. You should see your regular doctor to make sure everything is fine, and if it is, it won't interfere with rhinoplasty surgery. Be sure to see a rhinoplasty expert for consultation.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Your white blood count is only borderline low. I doubt that it indicates any problem or that it would interfere with your procedure

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

We see this occasionally, and it has not caused any problems with rhinoplasty surgery in any of our patients. I'm sure your surgeon will feel the same way, especially with endorsement by your general practitioner. Wishing you all moving forward! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. There are many possible reasons for this and you should receive a complete work up and medical clearance from your primary doctor prior to considering surgery.   After this is worked out then I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Can I get rhinoplasty surgery if I have low white blood cell count?

Answers (6)

Answer: Perhaps you have a chronically low white blood cell count.

Answer: Perhaps you have a chronically low white blood cell count.

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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Can I get rhinoplasty surgery if I have low white blood cell count?

Answers (6)

Answer: Perhaps you have a chronically low white blood cell count.

Answer: Perhaps you have a chronically low white blood cell count.

Answer: Rhinoplasty

Answer: Rhinoplasty

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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