Can I drive myself home after smartlipo?

Question

Marwan R. Khalifeh, MD · Answer

The short answer is "no".  In my practice, we give oral medications to patients that include pain killers.  There is a major liability in driving on such medications, so we always ensure that our patients have a ride or are able to take a taxi home.
	In the event that a patient does not take any narcotic medications they may be able to drive themselves.  However, this is something you should talk over with your doctor.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question! Certainly, discuss this with your plastic surgeon, as answers will vary among surgeons.  I typically say that whenever you are not taking narcotic pain medications and when you feel like you are strong enough to turn the steering wheel suddenly if needed, then you may resume driving. If you meet those requirements, take short trips around your block with somebody and see how you do.  After any procedure requiring general anesthesia, sedation, or if narcotics given, you may not drive home. Lipo procedures are sometimes performed under general or sedation. You will require a ride home from a friend, family member, or a service. It is also recommended for somebody to be with you for the first 24-48 hrs postoperatively.  If small areas and only local anesthesia, you probably could - discuss with your surgeon. Best wishes!

Sherwood Baxt, MD (retired) · Answer

sure if it is a small area done under local anesthesia with no pre surgery oral sedation. you are taking a significant risk of liability otherwise.

Can I drive myself home after smartlipo?

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Can I drive myself home after smartlipo?

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Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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