A 30-year-old member asked:
How risky is a heart valve replacement surgery on an obese person?
2 doctor answers • 4 doctors weighed in

Dr. Irv Lohanswered
Cardiology 43 years experience
Increased if very: Obesity may complicate not only the mechanics of the surgery, but the anesthetic, respiratory and healing processes after such major open heart surgery. The risks go up with severity of obesity and if obesity related conditions like diabetes or sleep apnea are present. Transcatheter valve procedures can minimize the risk, but are less widely available and applicable.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.8k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Gregg Nishianswered
Bariatrics 24 years experience
Heart valve: Hard to give a number, but being obese definitely increases your risk during and after heart valve surgery.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 42-year-old member asked:
What is the cost of double heart valve replacement surgery?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. Mario Matos-Cruzanswered
Thoracic Surgery 41 years experience
Ask hospital account: Your hospital accountant may be able to inform you the cost of the procedure at that particular institution.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A 40-year-old member asked:
Is heart valve replacement surgery successful?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. ALADIN MARIANOanswered
Thoracic Surgery 51 years experience
Yes: But, it depends on the diagnosis and indication for the procedure, as well as the experience of the cv surgeon.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
A 35-year-old member asked:
What do you advise for heart valve replacement surgery?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in

Dr. Bennett Werneranswered
Cardiology 46 years experience
Specifically: If your doctor says you need it, you'd better pay attention! Do you have a specific question?
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.1k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 19, 2013
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.