Will I need my IUD removed before Breast Augmentation?

Many women with IUDs, Harrington rods (metal rods for spine straightening), and other metal prostheses (hips, knees, etc.) have undergone breast enlargement with implants without any problem at all. You can safely leave your IUD in and proceed with your surgery without concern.

I have operated on patients with dermal anchors as well, but these should be clean, present in non-infected or inflamed skin, and be able to be covered with sterile adhesive films if in the surgical field. Nipple piercings should be removed, and can easily be replaced after surgery is completed.

Hi nickysixx-

No, you are not required to remove the IUD device prior to surgery. Depending on your surgeon's operative plan, a breast augmentation should take between 1-2 hours at the most and the risk of deep vein clots is low. As far as the dermal anchor, if it is near the operative field, YES, I would have you remove it prior. We have actually had patients remove them as we are getting them ready to go to the operating room, and then help them replace them before they go home so they do not loose the piercing.

Hope this helps!

Good Luck!

Dr. C

There is no reason to remove the IUD prior to surgery.  The IUD will not be touching any grounding surface so there is no risk of burns occuring.  The dermal anchor piercings may require either removal (if they are in the operative field and can't be prepped and draped sterily)  if your surgeon feels there is a risk of skin burns due to their location or capping them to protect the skin.  Let your surgeon know where the piercings are so proper plans can be made.