I take amitriptyline 75mg at night to prevent headaches as well as to help me sleep. In the drug information it says that you might have to quit taking it before having surgery. Would I have to quit taking it before me full TT? If so how long before should I stop taking it and is there another alternative such as over the counter sleep aids that are safe for me to take?
September 30, 2011
Answer: Preparation For Tummy Tuck
Thank you for the question. I do not think it is necessary to stop the use of amitriptyline ( antidepressant) prior to your tummy tuck procedure. it will be good for you, however to check with your chosen surgeon for his/her recommendations.
A word of advice regarding the emotional aspects of tummy tuck recovery may be helpful. Patients who are about to undergo tummy tuck surgery spend a lot of time thinking about the physical preparation for the procedure (for example weight loss issues) but do not spend a lot of time thinking about the emotional aspects.
It is not uncommon for patients who undergo the procedure to experience severe “mood swings”. These emotions may range from depression ( “why did I do this to myself”) to elation (which may lead to over activity). I think it is helpful to be aware that these emotional swings do occur postoperatively.
Suggestions I have for patients undergoing this procedure: 1. Make sure you have a strong support system in place who have time/patience to take care of you. 2. Be patient with the healing process, understanding that it will take several weeks to months to feel “normal” again. 3. Be prepared to distract your mind with things of interest such as books, magazines, and movies. 4. Expect less of yourself; do not go back to work too early and let others take care of you (for a change). 5. Keep in close communication with your surgeon and do not hesitate to communicate questions/concerns and the emotional swings that you may experience. 6. Keep in mind the end result!
I hope this helps.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
September 30, 2011
Answer: Preparation For Tummy Tuck
Thank you for the question. I do not think it is necessary to stop the use of amitriptyline ( antidepressant) prior to your tummy tuck procedure. it will be good for you, however to check with your chosen surgeon for his/her recommendations.
A word of advice regarding the emotional aspects of tummy tuck recovery may be helpful. Patients who are about to undergo tummy tuck surgery spend a lot of time thinking about the physical preparation for the procedure (for example weight loss issues) but do not spend a lot of time thinking about the emotional aspects.
It is not uncommon for patients who undergo the procedure to experience severe “mood swings”. These emotions may range from depression ( “why did I do this to myself”) to elation (which may lead to over activity). I think it is helpful to be aware that these emotional swings do occur postoperatively.
Suggestions I have for patients undergoing this procedure: 1. Make sure you have a strong support system in place who have time/patience to take care of you. 2. Be patient with the healing process, understanding that it will take several weeks to months to feel “normal” again. 3. Be prepared to distract your mind with things of interest such as books, magazines, and movies. 4. Expect less of yourself; do not go back to work too early and let others take care of you (for a change). 5. Keep in close communication with your surgeon and do not hesitate to communicate questions/concerns and the emotional swings that you may experience. 6. Keep in mind the end result!
I hope this helps.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
October 2, 2011
Answer: Would I Have to Stop Taking Amitriptyline (Elavil) Before Full TT?
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is an antidepressant which MAY need to be stopped before general anesthesia. Your Plastic surgeon needs to consult BOTH with the physician who put you on this medication as well as the anesthesiologist who may be involved in your care to see what type of anesthetic agents could or could not be used if you are taking the medication.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
October 2, 2011
Answer: Would I Have to Stop Taking Amitriptyline (Elavil) Before Full TT?
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is an antidepressant which MAY need to be stopped before general anesthesia. Your Plastic surgeon needs to consult BOTH with the physician who put you on this medication as well as the anesthesiologist who may be involved in your care to see what type of anesthetic agents could or could not be used if you are taking the medication.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful