Surgery with High Blood Pressure

[xChdx 15]

Hey all.

As someone who's dealt with high blood pressure since adolescence (I'm 24 now), WLS is something I've considered since I was about 17 or so. Now that I'm actively pursuing a gastric sleeve, I'm kind of worried about potential surgical risks that might be associated with high blood pressure. Does anyone know if there is any increased risk of complications or death for hypertensive patients during surgery? I mean, I have to figure it's not an uncommon problem for those of us undergoing bariatric procedures, right? So I'm sure the surgeon has plenty of experience with it.

I know this is all stuff I should discuss with my doctor, I just wanted to hear some input from anyone who may have had similar concerns before their surgery.

Thanks.

[able2cope 193]

I have hypertension, and with my surgery I actually got low blood pressure.. you need to talk to your surgeon about your concerns, but you are right, they are very experienced in these procedures.

[belunos 93]

I had hypertension and no issues. Dr wasn't concerned. Are you on medication?

[xChdx 15]

I am. Though it does like to be stubborn and sporadic sometimes. Especially when I get nervous. So in the back of my mind I have this fear that it'll go haywire on the operating table or something.

[honeyg317 107]

Hi! They have ways to control your blood pressure while you are in surgery. You need to talk with your doc about your concerns. The anesthesiologist will also be a good person to speak with about this. The surgery may help with your BP. Good luck to you!

[dfwtxmissy 108]

I have high blood pressure however was kept in recovery a little longer because it was too low..they couldn't get it over 100....

I don't think you will have an issue with it.

[Sassy Pants1 186]

I was hypertensive. My BP would not come down after surgery so they gave me an injection which fixed it. Now, 5 months later, I just went off my meds.

[xChdx 15]

Thanks for the assurances everyone. Besides I have plenty of time to find new stuff to worry about, haha. But I'm sure it'll be fine.

[Cabingirl 55]

I'd encourage you to choose a Bariatric Center of Excellence in a great hospital -- they will be part of a first class hospital and know how to manage many co-morbidities. Your hypertension shouldn't be an issue, but you want to have a great surgeon working with a great anesthesiologist to bring you through with no worries.

[one_more_time 145]

I'd encourage you to choose a Bariatric Center of Excellence in a great hospital -- they will be part of a first class hospital and know how to manage many co-morbidities. Your hypertension shouldn't be an issue, but you want to have a great surgeon working with a great anesthesiologist to bring you through with no worries.

I agree with this as well... I have had high blood pressure since I was around 16 ( genetics). My surgeon/anesthesiologist and the medical center where I had my surgery are apart of the Bariatric Centers of Excellence in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. They deal with issues like this all of the time. My blood pressure was high the morning of surgery and was even high after. The staff was great and got it under control the entire time that I was hospitalized. Upon discharge my surgeon prescribed me new medication and since then it has been well under control. I am hoping that within the next few months (as I continue to lose weight and with my dietary changes) my pressure will remain normal even without medication.

[xChdx 15]

I'm going through Dr. Weiss at Central Baptist in Lexington, KY, which is a Bariatric Center of Excellence. And from what I understand Dr. Weiss is one of the best in the state.

[Sleevedmedic 59]

Dr Weiss is the best in the state of ky by far. I had my surgery with him he is an awesome surgeon.

[Gina1010 86]

A good doctor will send you for tests prior to surgery to see if you are at risk. A cardiologist is usually recommended and they will advise if there is an issue... Good luck in your journey!

[ladycynjj 31]

I'm going through Dr. Weiss at Central Baptist in Lexington, KY, which is a Bariatric Center of Excellence. And from what I understand Dr. Weiss is one of the best in the state.

Dr Weiss is the best in the state of ky by far. I had my surgery with him he is an awesome surgeon.

My surgery is with Dr Weiss on April 9...I couldn't have pick a better physician!!!

[pharmd08 18]

I have had several surgeries and for some reason anesthesia increases my blood pressure. I always make sure to tell my Dr and the anesthesiologist about it before surgery so they are ready. They always have to give me IV meds to bring my BP down, but as long as they know about it in advance and are ready for it, it is no big deal.