Should I get my IUD removed before surgery?

Question

I have the merina coil and planning on having it removed now my husband had had the snip. Do you think it’s wise to wait until after my op or shall I get it out before? Just wondering as it’s the hormonal iud I didn’t know if it would make any changes to my breasts

Vinod Chopra, MD · Answer

This is a great question. If you are currently not experiencing any issues with your IUD, you do not have to get it removed before your Breast Augmentation surgery. Some hormones can increase the risks of blood clots so please discuss with your surgeon and healthcare professionals in regards to your current situation to safely achieve your aesthetic goals.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Reserved207039,
hormonal contraception can be the cause of complications so most plastic surgeons require their removal. But 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

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

It's great that you're thinking ahead about your surgery! When it comes to removing your hormonal IUD (like the Mirena coil) before surgery, there are a few factors to consider:
1.	Breast Changes: The Mirena IUD releases a small amount of progestin, which can sometimes affect your breasts by causing them to feel fuller or slightly more tender. However, this is usually mild. If you're planning a breast procedure like a breast lift or augmentation, removing it might result in changes to your breast tissue, as the hormonal effect would no longer be present. If you’re particularly concerned about the changes, you could discuss this with your surgeon to see if they advise waiting or removing it beforehand.
2.	Timing of Removal: If you're feeling comfortable with your current IUD and have no immediate medical concerns related to it, it's generally fine to keep it in until after your surgery. However, if you're having it removed because your husband has had a vasectomy and you no longer need birth control, it’s probably best to have it removed ahead of your surgery to avoid any unnecessary stress on your body.
3.	Impact on Surgery: The IUD shouldn’t have a direct impact on your surgery, but as with any hormonal changes, it's always a good idea to consult with your surgeon or OB-GYN to ensure everything is aligned for optimal results. They can give you the best advice on whether removing it before your surgery is a good idea.
Ultimately, I’d recommend having a chat with your surgeon or OB-GYN about your specific concerns, especially if you’re uncertain about how removing the IUD might affect your breast appearance or overall healing.

Should I get my IUD removed before surgery?

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Should I get my IUD removed before surgery?

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