White coat syndrome & anxiety. I get very anxious when taking my blood pressure. Am I still able to get cosmetic surgery?

Question

So my blood pressure gets elevated when I’m nervous . . And I get nervous everytime I get my blood pressure token, because I was traumatized from having preeclampsia while being pregnant. I do have good readings especially at home, but I was wondering if I would still be able to get cosmetic surgery work done?

Mark Eberbach, MD · Answer

Good question. The reality is that high blood pressure is high blood pressure whatever the cause. So the question is how high? Hypertension can easily be controlled during surgery. After, however a spike in blood pressure can cause bleeding that can be a big problem.It is best to have your pressure checked multiple times and if high get it treated, even if it is for a short time.Good luck

Douglas Leppink, MD · Answer

Plastic surgery is generally elective surgery, and so you can prepare yourself before surgery to be your healthiest! "White-coat" syndrome is actually quite common, but may need an evaluation depending on the level of high blood pressure that you get to. If you are stressed by any problem, even "white-coats," and your blood pressure is really high, then you are at risk of bleeding after surgery or other problems. Please speak with your Plastic Surgeon about your concerns to determine whether a short course of blood pressure control is necessary. Your Surgeon may ask your regular doctor for assistance as well.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

If you have high blood pressure, as long as it is regulated with meds and your pressure normalizes, it should be fine.You likely also need medical clearance. Best of luck.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

You should be worked up for hypertension because anxiety would not cause a dangerous spike in and of itself.  There is high and there is higher in the sense of surgical risk.  Some readings would be helpful.

White coat syndrome & anxiety. I get very anxious when taking my blood pressure. Am I still able to get cosmetic surgery?

Answers (4)

Answer: Hypertension

Answer: Hypertension

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White coat syndrome & anxiety. I get very anxious when taking my blood pressure. Am I still able to get cosmetic surgery?

Answers (4)

Answer: Hypertension

Answer: Hypertension

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Brazilian Butt Lift

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