Is there a shortage of lidocaine?

Question

Hi, I was wondering if there’s currently a shortage on lidocaine. I had recently had lipo done in June and there’s a spot that the surgeon missed and during my last checkup he said he could fix the small area of concern for cheap. Well I just received a text saying there’s a shortage in lidocaine and that they won’t know the ETA on when they’ll receive it. So I’m bummed and I’m not sure if I’m being told the truth or if he just doesn’t want to do it since he offered it super cheap.

Jason Pozner, MD · Answer

Yes - there is a lidocaine shortage but we are able to get for much higher prices from third party vendors.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

There are occasionally shortages of certain medications. During those times distribution companies may limit availability of certain popular products. During shortages surgeons may have to pay more, used different brands, used different strengths or purchase lidocaine in different size containers. Usually the most common size and strength lidocaine becomes the mist difficult to find. 
I just logged into Henry Schein which is one of the largest medical distributors in the country.
They have plenty of lidocaine in all strengths and formats. 
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Is there a shortage of lidocaine?

Answers (2)

More Liposuction Revision Questions

Is there a shortage of lidocaine?

Answers (2)

More Liposuction Revision Questions

Loose and saggy skin after Vaser Liposuction - is this fixable? (photos)

Age 52, what can I do about purple marks after 360 liposuction? (Photo)

Lumpy upper abdomen after liposuction 7 months post op. What is the best approach?