I was informed that I have a “Factor 11 problem” when I was going through my pre-op tests for a Facelift. What does this mean, and are there non-invasive procedures that can help me?
Answer:
Factor 11 deficiency, also known as Rosenthal Syndrome, can be identified with normal coagulation studies performed during the pre-operative work up. Patients with this coagulation abnormality will have elevated partial thromboplastin time (PTT). The syndrome varies in severity, ranging from mild to severe. I recommend that all patients that have an abnormality, even if slight, to undergo further testing. A hematologist should evaluate patients identified with an elevated PTT. After being diagnosed with factor 11 deficiency, they should be stratified as high or low risk. There are studies that indicate that factor 11 deficiency patients may undergo elective plastic surgery with the use of IV administered fresh frozen plasma, which contains clotting factors. Patients at low risk had fresh frozen plasma available and those in the high-risk category were given fresh frozen plasma were given the clotting factors before cosmetic surgery. All patients that underwent cosmetic surgery did well without any complications. Patients with factor 11 deficiency that wish to undergo plastic surgery should consult with their hematologist and plastic surgeon. While surgery is possible, the patient should weigh all the risks associated with the procedure with the benefits. Surgery with this condition carries significant risks.
Posted by Dr. Bustillo