Treating Pain After Smartlipo

Ibuprofen is an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) that can cause bleeding and bruising after surgery. An alternative NSAID is Celebrex (celecoxib) which does not significantly increase the risk of bleeding and has a more favorable side effect profile in regard to gastrointestinal irritation. It is a useful non-narcotic that can be used safely around the time of surgery. Many of my patients have been grateful that I often prescribe this before surgery, as they find they have less... more

I generally request that all patients refrain from Motrin (Ibuprofen and Advil are the same) for 2 weeks before and after surgery because of the increased risk of bleeding and bruising that these medications carry. 

Although Smart Lipo tends to have less bruising due to the lasers ability to coagulate small vessels, there is always a potential for postoperative bruising and bleeding. Ibuprofen will worsen this situation so it is a definite NO. Most of my patients do well with Tylenol. Rarely they will request something stronger in which case I will prescribe either celebrex ( an excellent choice as a non-narcotic) or vicodin ( a mild narcotic pain reliever). Smart Lipo gives a rapid recovery with... more

For many patients, Tylenol is adequate for pain control after liposuction. Any NSAID can increase the risk of bleeding after surgery. Several small studies have suggested that Celebrex does not increase bleeding risk, but it is an NSAID and can increase bleeding risk. Prescription Tramadol or Ultram is not a narcotic, but has some narcotic action(mu receptor) and is an effective pain reliever that has fewer side effects and could be a good choice. I usually offer Hydrocodone, and... more

Unfortunately you cannot take ibuprofen, as this could cause bruising and bleeding after surgery. We ask all patients to stay away from ibuprofen products, advil, motrin, etc at least one week before and after surgery. If you don’t feel comfortable taking vicodin, you may want to take some Extra Strength Tylenol.