How Long Prior to Breast Reduction Surgery Would You Roccomend Your Patient to Be off a Weight Loss/appetite Suppressant Med Lik

Thank you for the question.  Congratulations on your decision to proceed with breast reduction surgery; it is one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform.

In our practice, during the preoperative visit ( typically done several weeks prior to surgery)  patients are given a list of do's and don'ts that will help them get through the surgery and recovery safely.   We review their medical history and obtain any necessary preoperative workup necessary. This may include EKG and/or laboratory values depending on the patient's specific situation.

"Dos and don'ts" regarding the use of medications,  alcohol, nicotine,  foods  etc. are reviewed in detail ((before and after surgery).

Generally, patients are asked to stay of weight loss/appetite suppressant medication for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery.

 Always best to check with your chosen plastic surgeon.

 Best wishes.

 

Most weight loss/appetite supressants are based on Phentermine.  You must be off Phentermine and similar supplements for at least one--and preferably two or more--weeks prior to any general anesthetic.  

Why?  Phentermine acts by causing release of catecholamines (adrenaline and noradrenaline), which "rev up" the heart in the same way that any major stress will do.  Since a general anesthetic and surgery also represent a major stress, use of phentermine at the time of surgery may be dangerous.  Phentermine may interfere with your ability to increase your heart rate in response to the stress of surgery, since you will have already depleted your catecholamines.