The Effects and Risks of Cardiovascular Health of Cosmetic Surgeries

Introduction

In Los Angeles, it is common to see new beauty trends surfacing every now and then. Unfortunately, this comes with a price as thousands of patients choose to get Botox, liposuction, facelifts, breast augmentations and the list goes on year by year. Each one of these surgeries have risks associated with them, especially when it comes to heart problems. Complications from anesthesia, blood clots, or inflammation posing the risk for heart issues. This paper examines a range of cosmetic surgeries and their effects on patients’ cardiovascular health, the risks involved, and what measures can be taken to reduce these risks prior to surgery.

How Cosmetic Procedures Impact the Heart

Surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures can both have an effect on the cardiovascular system. The healing phase tends to be the most important, so elective cosmetic procedures can vary from patient to patient. Here are some of the reasons cosmetic surgeries does have an impact on heart health.

1. Anesthesia-Related Complications

– General and Major Cosmetic Surgeries with the use of Anesthesia: Many surgeries make use of general anesthesia which greatly reduces the body pressures and can result in lowering heart rate, blood clotting, and, unfortunately, can increase the chance of arrhythmia or even cardiac arrest.

– Sedation and Heart Rate Changes: Even routine surgeries performed with local anesthesia or IV sedation can elicit abnormal heart rate increases for those who already have issues with arrhythmias.

– High-Risk Groups: Patients suffering from congestive heart failure, a history of one or more heart attacks or severe blockages within the arteries are at much higher risk when undergoing anesthesia and sedation.

2. Straining the Cardiovascular System Through Liposuction

– Lipolysis and the risk of shock: Liposuction removes large quantities of fat, but it does so while simultaneously eliminating fluid from the body. This loss of fluids, coupled with a lack of essential electrolytes, can lead to perilous fluctuations in blood pressure and even an increase in risk of collapsing.

– Fat Embolism Syndrome (FES): A rare but life-threatening complication fat particle enters the bloodstream and shifts around, eventually settling and blocking circulation to significant areas of the body such as the heart lungs. Rapid heartbeat, chest pain, and even shortness of breath are severe indicators of this.

– Moving Compression Garments: These garments are put in place to reduce swell in an attempted post liposuction ordeal, however, they can tend to be too constrictive during some intervals which can lead to heart patients increasing chances of losing blood in excess.

3. Botox and Heart Health

– Limited threat to heart health: Botox has been deemed safe for most patients, but in rare cases, it can travel from the injection region to surrounding muscles which include those aiding in breathing and blood circulation and lead to failure of said muscles.

– Possibility of Interacting Medication: Individuals under beta blockers, blood thinners, or someone suffering from hypertension should contact their doctor before receiving Botox, as there is a possibility of complications resulting from such medication that alter normal heart rates.

– Vasovagal Risks: Fainting spells or bradycardias may occur in some patients, particularly those with prior heart disease, in response to injections.

4. Tummy Tucks, Facelifts, and Other Major Cosmetic Surgeries

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually of the legs. Any surgical procedure that needs a patient to remain still for a long period during and after the surgery increases the risk of clots. If a clot moves to the lung, it can cause pulmonary embolism which results in a fatal heart attack.

Surgical Trauma and Inflammation with Accompanying Cardiac Stress: Trypanous spasmodic reflexes occurring in response to vascular inflammation to the surgical trauma may also facilitate clotting and increase the chance of a heart attack some days later.

Time it Takes for Full Recovery: A heart patient is required to leave the bed after an operative procedure, but extended time lying down may cause heart problems. Prevent post-operative movement and skeletons more at risk for cardiovascular difficulties.

Prevention of Cardiovascular Problems Associated with Cosmetic Surgery

People with previous heart disease contemplating cosmetic surgery in Los Angeles can take these precautions to avoid the risks:

1. Obtain Preoperative Cardiac Clearance: A cardiologist should look at the function of the heart, blood pressure, and any possible interactions with medicines for surgery.

2. Choose a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon: One who has experience in dealing with high-risk patients and has good medical facilities available should be selected.

3. Use Local Anesthesia When Applicable: Avoid having a procedure done under general anesthesia if using a local/sedative approach is possible since it is lessened heart-related risks associated with anesthesia.

4. Check BP Pre-Operatively and Post Operatively: Pay close attention to any significant changes, especially in the first 48 hours after the procedure.

5. Post-Op Day Mobilization: Gentle movements, such as walking, assist in the reduction of the formation of blood clots. Consult your doctor to determine the safe levels of activity.

6. Drink Water and Don’t Smoke or Drink Alcohol: Proper hydration helps function while smoking and drinking alcohol increases the risks of surgery and slows down recovery.

7. If Ordered, Wear Compression Said Stockings: For some longer procedures, these can prevent blood clots and increase blood flow.

8. Take Caution with Pain Medication: Some post-operative medication can increase blood pressure or interact with the heart medications that the patient is taking. Dispose of safe options with your doctor.

Conclusion

Even though cosmetic procedures can enhance one’s appearance, which is a boost in confidence, it poses certain cardiovascular risks that should be handled with extreme care. People suffering from heart conditions should take their time with cosmetic surgery, and should be in coordination with their cardiologist as well as the plastic surgeon.

When they exercise appropriate measures, select a skilled surgical team, and adhere to post-operative care instructions, patients undergoing cosmetic surgery in LA can reduce their risks and feel more confident about getting the procedures done.