Is it normal for your period to start early after lipo?

Question

I am 4 days post op from lipo of the bra line, sides and flanks. Recovery has been going pretty well. On day 3 I started menstrual bleeding but my cycle normally starts two weeks from now. Is this normal for your cycle to start early after lipo and when should I start to worry if the bleeding doesn’t stop?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Any type of surgery is a physiologic stress, which can alter normal body signals and hormonal axes.  You should return to your normal cycle as you heal. Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

I can't say it's fully connected with your operation. This might be because of your post-op psychological tension. Your period will return to normal within 2-3 months. I wish you all the best.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The stress the body undergoes with surgery, along with medications from anesthesia and new prescriptions can cause your menstrual cycle to be thrown off a bit.  As you continue to heal you should resume your regular cycles.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Nenee79,
menstrual cycle can be changed after anesthesia and surgery. If this doesn't resolve with time, I suggest you to discuss it with your gynecologist.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Nenee79I appreciate your concern, however it is not unusual for menstrual periods to be altered after surgery. The combination of anesthesia and/or the actual procedure itself can trick the body to changing menstrual cycle. If there are further changes in your menstrual cycle, you should consult with your gynecologist. Good luck.

Is it normal for your period to start early after lipo?

Answers (5)