Taking iron pills before surgery?

Question

If my hemo is naturally a 14.0 is it necessary to take iron before surgery? My doc. Wants me to take iron but but I'm thinking if I take the iron pills it might make my hemo lower because it's already high. Do you think I should maybe take a pull every other day? I'm having a Tummy Tuck BBL & Breast Lift

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

This is a question that must be answered by your surgeon. Who knows your case intimately. Follow his or her instructions. My best,Dr. Sheila Nazarian@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Each surgeon has their own pre-operative instructions so it would be best to speak with your surgeon about this.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Fourteen is an normal hemoglobin level so iron supplementation is not needed unless for some reasons your surgeon expects a large blood loss.  For the majority of my patients the blood loss is minimal with mommy makeover surgery or tummy tucks. Taking iron with a normal hemoglobin will not significantly change it one way or the other.#tummytuck#mommymakeover

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. At a Hgb level of 14 you are well within normal lines.  I can not see why you would be in need of iron supplements, so I would recommend speaking to your surgeon about their recommendation.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

With a hemoglobin level of 14 I'm not certain why iron would be indicated. Nevertheless, you should follow the recommendations of your surgeon. You should feel comfortable asking why the additional iron in your particular circumstance.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Your hemoglobin level currently does not indicate that you would need iron supplements.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about your concerns.  Taking iron supplements would not lower your hemoglobin level, but may increase it.  It can potentially cause issues such as constipation.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

I would recommend having a discussion with your surgeon to find out why he is recommending the additional iron, but also it will be important to follow the instructions of your surgeon and not online consultants.Best wishes for a result you will be pleased with.

Sheldon Lincenberg, MD · Answer

Although your hemoglobin is in the normal range, there is no harm in supercharging your immune and healing capabilities, especially before a large surgery.

Robert Savage, MD (retired) · Answer

Hg of 14 is normal so most doctors would not feel it necessary unless there is something in your medical history not presented here.Review with your surgeon the rationale for its use.If the combination of procedures you are having are expected to be very bloody you could consider donating some of your own blood in advance in case it was needed,this should also be discussed with your doctor.

Jon A. Perlman, MD (retired) · Answer

I infrequently recommend preop iron supplements but must say it's probably not a bad idea even with a nl Hb.  If your hb drops after the surgery it takes a long time to build up your blood count especially if your iron stores are low.  The greatest risk is suffering constipation from the supplements but if it helps you to have a little greater strength and energy after your surgery it will be a conservative but wise choice IMO.Good luck and enjoy your results.Jon A Perlman MD FACS

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Taking iron pills before surgery?

Answers (11)

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