Took Aspirin Week Before Tummy Tuck. Do I Need to Cancel Surgery?

Usually aspirin and similar medications need to be stopped two weeks before surgery. Aspirin is a non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which affects platelet function. Despite platelet count being correct they do not function correctly. The process of regeneration usually takes two weeks for the bone marrow to generate new platelets to replace the affected platelets. So if a patient takes aspirin a week before an abdominoplasty the surgery needs to be postponed at least one week.

This is a question you need to speak with your plastic surgeon as there is not hard and fast answer. Clearly you will be at some increased risk for bruising and bleeding, but on the other hand we perform this procedure on certain patients who cannot stop this medication and take it throughout the pre and post operative period. A frank discussion of the risks involved with your surgeon is the best option at this point. 

Great question!  Most surgeons suggest stopping ASA at least 7-10 days prior to surgery to prevent bleeding.  For procedures that do not require a lot of undermining of flaps or a creation of a pocket, such as fat transfers, liposuction, etc. 7 days is fine.  Breast Augs, abdominoplasties and facelifts procedures may benefit by waiting at least 10 days. 

You should definitely ask your doctor. Asprin can increase the chance of bleeding before and after surgery. In my practice, we require patients be off asprin for 2 weeks before and after surgery. It will also depend if you take asprin on a regular basis. This is definitely something you should ask your doctor.

If you are otherwise healthy and did not take other medications, the cessation of aspirin one week prior to surgery is likely sufficient.  However, this is a decision you should take together with your surgeon.