American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 
crystal A
one month ago
Answered

BMI

I was denied a panniculectomy due to BMI being at 43. I am 5’3 244 lbs. I recently had a venogram and thrombectomy and it was discovered that the blood clots on my thighs are caused by my mechanics. So the way that it was explained to me is that my “excessive pannis” was “pancaking” my veins therefore leading to clots. I would like to know is due to this reason would I be a good candidate.

Procedure: Panniculectomy
Location: Hesperia, CA

Replies 2

Kimberly Marble
ASPS Surgeon

Your BMI and history of blood clots put you at high risk for complications or death. We utilize the Caprini Risk Assessment Scale to help is determine who is a good candidate for this type of surgery.

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Ricardo Rodriguez
ASPS Surgeon
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hello Crystal,

I am very sorry that you are having these problems. Unfortunately, it is necessary to lose weight before the surgery to lower your BMI. In my practice our cut off is BMI=35, and we use IV sedation. Surgeons that use General Anesthesia may be even stricter with BMI. With a higher BMI and blood clot history you are at severe risk of complications.

Have you considered any of the weight loss medications? If diet and exercise have not been successful, this might be an option fo you. Take care.

Ricardo L Rodriguez MD

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