Is it safe to use Tylenol after surgery? The narcotic painkillers make me very nauseous.

Question

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Tylenol has less chance of bruising during the first week of surgery then after that probably not much difference and safe to use Ibuprofen for most.. Your plastic surgeon will give you the best answer in your specific case about this, Here are some fo the guidelines I give my patients: Following surgery, you will be walking in a bent-over position to keep tension off the newly tightened skin incision site. Although strenuous activity, and lifting more than ten pounds, must be avoided for 6 weeks, some people can return to work and daily activities as soon as 2 weeks after surgery. Softening of the surgical scars, return of sensation, and loosening of the tight sensation may take several months to a year or more. Abdominoplasty involves a recovery period of 10 to 14 days longer than most plastic surgical procedures. Initial discomfort and decreased mobility is typical. To decrease this discomfort, we offer a long acting local anesthetic. This numbing injection solution (Exparel) which lasts for 3-4 days allows for an easier recovery and is preferable to older pain pump technology. 3-5 days or more of assistance at home is usually indicated. You will be encouraged to move and walk regularly starting the day of surgery. Wearing your TED stockings at all times, except while washing, to prevent venous clots (deep vein thrombosis) is mandatory.Light activity is comfortable in 10-20 days. No sports or heavy lifting for 6 weeks or more – please discuss with your doctor for specific questions

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

Tylenol (acetaminophen) is perfectly OK after surgery, but if you are also taking prescription medications they may also contain it so check to make sure you are not taking too much in total. Depending upon the type of surgery you are having, a long-acting numbing agent such as Exparel might also help reduce the amount of discomfort and the need for stronger medications.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I am sorry to hear of your pain killer issues.  They are strong medications and patients commonly develop some degree of nausea from them. Though best to clear any medication with your surgeon, Tylenol is typically very safe to use after surgery.

John Zavell, MD, FACS · Answer

It is safe to use the Tylenol after surgery and it is unlikely to make you nauseated.  Good luck

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

Only your operating surgeon isthe appropriate person to guide your medication choices after a surgery which he/she performed.  It is important to review the medications with him/her because many common pain prescriptions after surgery already containing Tylenol.  Doubling up can be dangerous.  Call your surgeon to get the safest recommendationsBest of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Is it safe to use Tylenol after surgery? The narcotic painkillers make me very nauseous.

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Is it safe to use Tylenol after surgery? The narcotic painkillers make me very nauseous.

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