Do doctors test for STDs and infections before a breast reduction?

Question

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

We do routinely have patients give blood sample for preoperative lab tests.  The tests that are run do not check for STDs.  If there is some concern then this would be best addressed by the patients primary care physician during the preoperative clearance or simply as a routine visit to the doctor.Urinary tract infections are something that will show up in the preoperative lab test workup that we send the patient for.  It is ideal to make sure that the patient is infection free prior to any elective surgery.Hope this answers your question.  Good luck!

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Routine STD or infection testing is not typically required before a breast reduction surgery. However, preoperative evaluations may include:
1.	Health History Review: The plastic surgeon will assess your overall health, including any history of infections or STDs.
2.	Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam will be conducted to ensure you are in good health for surgery.
3.	Blood Tests: These are common to check for any underlying conditions, such as anemia or clotting disorders.
4.	Imaging Tests: Sometimes, a mammogram or breast ultrasound may be requested before the surgery.
If there's a specific concern or you have a history of infections, the plastic surgeon may order additional tests. It's always best to discuss any concerns or questions with your plastic surgeon during the preoperative consultation.

Steven Heaney, MD · Answer

Our pre-op visit goes over your health history extensively.  I do not routinely test for STDs.  If you have concerns about a possible infection, do not hesitate to discuss those with your doctor.  Best of luck!

Lavinia K. Chong, MD · Answer

Prior to a breast reduction, we review the patient's medical history and perform a detailed physical exam.  The preop labs usually include the following: Complete Blood Count (to screen for anemia or occult infection), Basic Metabolic Panel (to screen for normal levels of electrolytes & glucose), pregnancy test for women of child bearing age, nasal swab (to exclude an asymptomatic carrier status.  Many individuals carry Staph aureus and do not exhibit any symptoms), Hepatitis and HIV panels and EKG for women>60 or any with prior cardiac history. This approach isn't standard but reflects my person practice.  I do not screen for STDs.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I go over the medical history and perform an examination in person.  I get routine blood work were indicated but I do not routinely get blood work for STD's

Do doctors test for STDs and infections before a breast reduction?

Answers (7)

Answer: Preop testing for Breast Reduction

Answer: Preop testing for Breast Reduction

Answer: Infections and STD's before surgery

Answer: Infections and STD's before surgery

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

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Do doctors test for STDs and infections before a breast reduction?

Answers (7)

Answer: Preop testing for Breast Reduction

Answer: Preop testing for Breast Reduction

Answer: Infections and STD's before surgery

Answer: Infections and STD's before surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Reduction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.