Can I drink alcohol 11 days before my tummy tuck?

Question

I am scheduled for a tummy tuck for Sept 1. My Dr says no alcohol 2.5 weeks prior to surgery. I rarely drink (maybe 2-3 times a year), and when I do I don't drink excessively. I have a big concert to attend with several friends, and I would love to be able to have 2-3 beers. Is it ok if I do this, even though its 11 before my surgery? I work out everyday, stay hydrated, do 90 minutes of cardio. I would like to know if its ok given my history to have a few beers??

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  I would recommend following your surgeon's advice regarding alcohol consumption and other preparation for surgery.  If you are unclear if it is truly necessary to abstain for a full 2.5 weeks you could explain the situation to your PS and see if they think it is reasonable to have a few beers.

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

You should definitely follow your plastic surgeon's directions. I tend to be a bit more lenient but each Doctor has their own approach to this.

Germán Newall, MD, FACS, FICS · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is best to follow your surgeon's instructions. Call your surgeon's office, and they should be able to help you out. Best Wishes, Dr. Newall

David J. Wages, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You should have a good relationship with your surgeon and by all means discuss this with her/him.  They must have the final say.  I feel it would be unwise to give advice to ignore your surgeons recommendations.

John Zavell, MD, FACS · Answer

There is no scientific evidence that I am aware of that recommends no alcohol for 2.5 weeks before a tummy tuck.  Unless you either have a drinking problem or are taking a medication that warns against alcohol consumption, then having 2-3 beers 11 days before your surgery should be ok.  There will be no residual effects left in your body 11 days later.

Brian J. Lee, MD · Answer

It is my opinion that small amounts of alcohol has a beneficial effect on the body. However, I am not your surgeon and it is always best to follow your surgeon's recommendations. You might ask she/he the rationale behind 2.5 weeks. Perhaps it is exaggerated as most people will bend the rules from what they are told. Congratulations on your healthful habits as that is more beneficial to your outcome.

Nicholas Tarola, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I don't know that there is any evidence regarding alcohol consumption and its effects on surgical outcomes more than a week out from surgery, especially such a small amount.  Therefore, each surgeon will have their own recommendations on this topic.  I recommend following your surgeon's advice on this one.  A non-alcoholic beer is another option that you can discuss with your surgeon.

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Each plastic surgeon has their own style in the pre and post operative management of the patient, therefore I would recommend you discuss this with your chosen plastic surgeon. I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Can I drink alcohol 11 days before my tummy tuck?

Answers (8)

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