I want to have a MMO, no BBL but my hemoglobin is low. Will iron or high dose vitamin C infusions work?

Question

I am having a mommy makeover DEC. 2020 consisting of a breast lift with gel gummy implants, full TT with muscle repair, and lipo of back and waist. NO BBL. But my hemoglobin is 11.9. I have been taking iron 65 mg since May 2020 Q daily BID and vitamin C 500 mg Q daily BID. What are some other ways besides naturally that will help increase my iron levels. Will iron OR high dose vitamin C infusions work?? Please let me know. I’m trying to get a hemoglobin of at least 12.5 before my sx DEC. 2020

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, the answer depends on the type of relative anemia you have.  If your lower hemoglobin is do to iron deficiency or blood loss like heavy periods--increasing your iron will help.  If your anemia is due to deficiency of B Vitamins, they should be supplementing them as well.  Good luck with surgery.

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Both iron and high-dose vitamin C infusions can potentially help increase hemoglobin levels, but they work through different mechanisms.

Iron Infusions: Low hemoglobin levels often indicate iron-deficiency anemia. Iron infusions can be an effective way to rapidly increase iron levels in the body. This, in turn, supports the production of hemoglobin, which is crucial for carrying oxygen in the blood. Your healthcare provider may recommend iron infusions if you have iron-deficiency anemia.

Vitamin C Infusions: Vitamin C is essential for iron absorption. High-dose vitamin C can enhance the absorption of iron from food or supplements. However, while it supports iron absorption, it might not directly increase hemoglobin levels on its own.

Before undergoing any infusions or treatments to increase hemoglobin levels, it's crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They will assess your specific condition, determine the underlying cause of low hemoglobin, and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

If you're planning to undergo a major surgery like a Mommy Makeover (MMO) and your hemoglobin levels are low, it's essential to address this issue beforehand. Low hemoglobin levels can affect your body's ability to heal and cope with the stress of surgery, potentially increasing the risks of complications.

Your healthcare provider might recommend a course of action, which could include iron supplementation, dietary changes, or infusions to increase hemoglobin levels before proceeding with surgery. Always follow your healthcare provider's guidance and treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcomes for your surgery and overall health.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question! It might not be a bad idea to incorporate a multivitamin with iron as well. Maybe you need that extra boost of iron to get your hemoglobin over 12. However, I've operated on patients at 11.9 safely as well. Good luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Passionate2710,
every plastic surgeon has his own preoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Some of the best foods to increase hemoglobin count levels include spinach, beetroot, broccoli, peanut butter, pomegranates, soybeans, watermelons, apples, red meat and eggs.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There are different causes of anemia.  The cause of your lower hemoglobin is needed in order to determine the proper treatment to increase it.  I encourage you to speak with the physician who ordered the lab work for you to create a treatment plan for you.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Supplemental iron or vitamin C are not going to help you unless you’re iron deficient or vitamin C deficient.

Doing so it’s like putting more motor oil in your car then needed.

You can’t force your body to make new red blood cells unless you’re depleted in some thing unless you stimulate red blood cell production with erythropoietin.

Your hemoglobin is right at low normal.

If your plastic surgeon is comfortable with doing that much surgery with your hemoglobin level then you should be all set.

Surgical technique can significantly decrease blood loss. Surgeons are willing to take their time and not cut corners typically lose very little blood with these surgeries.

I suggest talking to your plastic surgeon about your concerns.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

I want to have a MMO, no BBL but my hemoglobin is low. Will iron or high dose vitamin C infusions work?

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