If You Are on Blood Thinner Can You Get Lift?

It is possible to rejuvenate the neck while on blood thinners.  First and foremost, your cardiologist needs to determine if it is possible for you to discontinue use of blood thinners such as Coumadin or Warfarin for an elective cosmetic procedure such as a neck lift.  If so, you would have to decide if you are willing to assume the risks associated with discontinuing such medication.  If you cannot or do not feel comfortable discontinuing such medication, procedures to rejuvenate the neck are still possible.  However, there are increased risks associated with performing a neck lift while on blood thinners such as developing a collection of blood under the skin called a hematoma.  I recommend that you consult with a plastic surgeon who specializes in performing face-neck lifts to learn more about the options which are available to address your aesthetic concerns while minimizing the risks of developing any complications.

Many patients who are on blood thinners are advised to obtain the approval of their anticoagulating physicians before going off the anticoagulants.  I know of one case (not my patient), resulting in a stroke after elective cosmetic surgery from stopping their anticoagulation before their facelift.  There is always risk involved in surgery, and more so if other medical conditions are present.  My job is to recommend the safest path to your rejuvenation, and in some cases, this means not offering surgery.