What medications that I am taking do I need to discontinue before my breast augmentation surgery? And how soon before should I?

Every surgeon has their own pre- and post-operative care instructions. Please list all of the medications and supplements you’re taking for your surgeon so that they may let you know which ones you should discontinue and for how long.

hello thank you for your question and provided information as well..Ideally, you should consult with your plastic surgeon about which pills you can stop. in my opinion only the contraceptive.

Thank you for your question!  You should ask your plastic surgeon for a list of medications that he/she recommends you stop preoperatively.   In my practice I have my patients stop birth control 2 weeks prior to surgery since it could potentially put you at an increased risk for a blood clot.  Good luck!

Dear mm2772,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

It's crucial to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions regarding medication before your breast augmentation surgery. Here are some general guidelines, but please consult your plastic surgeon for recommendations:
Birth Control Pills and Spironolactone
• Birth Control Pills: Some plastic surgeons recommend discontinuing birth control pills a few weeks before surgery because they can increase the risk of blood clots. However, this varies by plastic surgeon, so ask your specific provider.
• Spironolactone: Generally, spironolactone is stopped 1-2 weeks before surgery due to its diuretic effect and potential impact on potassium levels.
Allergy Medications
• Zyrtec (Cetirizine): Typically, this can be continued, but confirm with your plastic surgeon.
• Montelukast (Singulair): This is usually safe to continue but check with your plastic surgeon.
Probiotics
• Culturelle Probiotics: Probiotics are generally safe to continue taking before surgery. However, it's always good practice to inform your plastic surgeon about all supplements you're taking.
General Advice
• Aspirin and NSAIDs: Discontinue at least 1-2 weeks before surgery as they can increase bleeding risk.
• Herbal Supplements: Some should be discontinued due to potential bleeding risks or interactions, so review all supplements with your plastic surgeon.
Timing: Generally, medications that need to be stopped are usually discontinued 1-2 weeks before surgery, but this can vary based on the medication and your plastic surgeon's preference.
Next Steps
1. Consult Your Surgeon: Provide a full list of all medications and supplements you're taking.
2. Follow Instructions: Adhere to the specific guidelines given by your plastic surgeon.
3. Communicate: If you experience any changes or issues, inform your plastic surgeon immediately.
By consulting your plastic surgeon, you can ensure a safe and smooth preparation for your breast augmentation surgery.

Consult with your surgeon, as he/she will likely have a list of medications you should stop before surgery.  With the medications you listed, I don't think you will need stop any of them except for the oral contraceptive, which you may want to discuss more thoroughly.  My recommendations are to stop OCPs 2 weeks before surgery, then continue them 4 weeks after, due to (very) slightly increased risk of developing clots.  Hope this helps!  

I would suggest calling your surgeon's office and asking these questions. Every surgeon has his/her choice about what medications should be stopped and when prior to surgery.

First, check with your PS. Most PS will give you a list of medications which must be stopped  for a determined period prior to surgery. Question your PS about the birth control pills and whether you should stop them prior to surgery.

Thanks for the question.  I do not see any issues with continuing spironolactone, Zyrtec and montelukast before your surgery.  The recommendations for birth control pills are somewhat controversial.  The issue with birth control pills is that they increase your risk for venous thromboembolism and pulmonary embolus (VTE/PE).  I my own practice, I recommend that patients stop oral contraceptives for 2 weeks before surgery and can restart them 4 weeks after the surgery.  This is also the manufacturer's recommendations.  For patients with implanted contraception (Mirena, etc.), we do not recommend removal of the device.  In any event, the risks of complications are very low with breast augmentation.  Good luck with your surgery.