OK to continue birth control before surgery?

Question

I am scheduled for surgery Nov 4th. TT, lipo, BL with implant replacement. I have PCOS and take birth control to help. When I have gotten off birth control previously, my weight has gone crazy.... gained 18 lbs in 6 weeks first time and 22 lbs in 5 weeks the second time. So I would really rather not get off of it unless it is absolutely necessary. I asked the nurse at PS office and was told that it is okay not to get off of it but they have to educate me of the increased risk for clots.

John LoMonaco, MD, FACS · Answer

Birth control pills, especially if combined with smoking, can increase blood clot risk on their own, and the risk would go up to some degree after surgery.  Temporarily stopping the pills would probably be advisable in your case.You can further reduce your risk of clot  formation by using sequential compression devices (a fancy term for inflatable leg massagers) before, during, and after surgery along with maintaining good hydration the first 24 hours.Be aware of the risks, but also speak with your plastic surgeon about your risk level, and most importantly ways to reduce it.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello, The extent of your surgeries and length of time required under anesthetic as well as down time mean that for my patient, I would advise stopping  one cycle prior to surgery. The health risks associated may outweigh the risk of weight gain for you- as undesirable as that is. Your Surgeon will want to take additional precautions if you do not stop.You and your Plastic Surgeon should have a clear, frank discussion about this before proceeding.All the best

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

There's no right or wrong answer to this particular situation but you should discuss is very specifically with your surgeon. The surgeon may want you to stop for the purpose of reducing the risk of pulmonary embolism.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Birth control increases your risks of developing blood clots. I suggest you talk to your surgeon, not the nurse, about your condition. They may be able to recommend something that will allow you to have the surgery.

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.I advise my patients to stop birth control pills before surgery after consultation with the Gynecologist and Primariy Care Physician. I would advise you to talk to your Plastic Surgeon to get his advise regarding this issue. All The Best !

OK to continue birth control before surgery?

Answers (8)

Answer: Talk to your surgeon and not the nurse

Answer: Talk to your surgeon and not the nurse

Answer: OK to continue birth control before surgery?

Answer: OK to continue birth control before surgery?

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OK to continue birth control before surgery?

Answers (8)

Answer: Talk to your surgeon and not the nurse

Answer: Talk to your surgeon and not the nurse

Answer: OK to continue birth control before surgery?

Answer: OK to continue birth control before surgery?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

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