Obesity and High BMI
Patients with a high body mass index (BMI) of 35 or above are at an increased risk for complications during and after surgery. Obesity is often associated with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, all of which can exacerbate surgical risks. These risks include:
- Venous thromboembolism (blood clots in the legs or lungs)
- Infection
- Delayed wound healing and poor scarring
Patients with a BMI of 36 or higher should be aware of the potential for heightened surgical complications and should undergo careful evaluation before proceeding.
Stable Weight
Maintaining a stable weight is crucial for achieving optimal results from plastic surgery. While minor weight fluctuations within 5 to 10 pounds may not significantly affect your outcome, significant weight gain or loss before or after surgery can impact healing, aesthetic results, and the overall success of the procedure.
Smoking
Nicotine has a profound negative effect on wound healing due to its vasoconstrictive properties, which restrict blood flow and impair tissue oxygenation. Smoking also increases the risk of anesthesia complications, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and delayed wound healing. For these reasons, we require that all patients cease smoking (including tobacco and marijuana) and vaping for a minimum of 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery.
Pregnancy
Elective surgery during pregnancy is contraindicated due to the potential risks to both the mother and fetus. Additionally, if you plan to become pregnant within the next year, we strongly advise postponing surgery. Pregnancy can cause significant changes to your body, particularly in the breasts and abdomen, which may undo the aesthetic results of your procedure. For those who have recently given birth we suggest waiting about 6 months before having cosmetic surgery to allow your body time to heal, hormone levels to stabilize, and tissues to return to their natural state.
Chronic Medical Conditions
Certain chronic health conditions may increase the risks associated with elective surgery. If you have any of the following conditions, we may require a medical clearance letter from your primary care physician or specialist before proceeding with surgery:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Diabetes
- Asthma
- Cardiovascular disease
- Autoimmune disorders
- Psychological or emotional instability
