I want to have my breasts lifted without implants, but I do have heart disease. Is this safe?
Heart disease is not an absolute contraindication to surgery. However, as with any elective surgery, you should be in good (optimal) health prior. In your case, I would recommend obtaining medical/cardiac clearance before surgery.
As always, discuss your concerns with a board-certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Generally, cosmetic procedures should not be done if there is a significant risk. The amount of risk depends on individual factors. That would be a decision best made by your cardiologist and your plastic surgeon, in consultation together. The specifics of your heart disease would need to be assessed by both doctors.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
You would need to obtain clearance from your primary care physician who could best asses your risk of surgery in conjunction with your PS. Most of the time this surgery can be done regardless of the state of health as it does not involve a great stress to the body.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Elective Cosmetic surgery is not performed for patients who have significant medical issues. A pre-op clearance is required. If the issues are minor and if the patient is medically cleared, the surgery MAY (or may not be) be carried out.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Yes, you can. Lifting alone is an excellent procedure. It will not only lift your breast but will make them feel firmer. The implant serves to add more fullness to the upper part of the breasts as well as increase overall size. Without knowing specifics about the severity of your heart disease it is not possible to tell you if it is safe to proceed with surgery. I operate on patients with well-controlled, asymptomatic heart disease as long as they have received clearance from their cardiologist.
Published on Jul 11, 2012