Sublingual cannabis for anxiety and fibromyalgia: do I need to stop before my tummy tuck procedure?

Question

I take low dose cannabis oil sublingually for anxiety and fibromyalgia. Do I need to stop before my tummy tuck surgery? If so, how far in advance and how long postoperatively should I not take it? What are the risks of consuming cannabis too close to surgery or too soon after surgery? Please note, I never smoke or vape any substances, my consumption is exclusively swallowed in oil form.

Chris Funderburk, MD · Answer

I want to congratulate you on not smoking tobacco or cannabis. Smoke and heat damage the lungs, and components of the smoke can impair wound healing significantly. The oil you take is okay for surgery. Some popular supplements to avoid a couple of weeks before surgery include vitamin E, ginger, ginko, and ginseng. Avoid NSAIDs and aspirin as well.   All of these promote bleeding.

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

The cannabis should not affect the outcome of your surgery but it is important that your surgeon and anesthesiologist are aware of all current medications and supplements.

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

H Mummy,The cannabis should not interfere with your surgery, but it may affect your ability to tolerate pain medications adequately. It seems that people who take cannabis are less responsive to narcotics in the post-operative period..Be sure to tell your anesthesiologist and plastic surgeon what you have been taking.Best,Dr. Christine Rodgers

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  Your sublingual cannabis should not impact your healing or results and can be continued.  Be sure to mention to your surgeon to get the best advice based on your specific medical history and anticipated surgery extent

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear MummyTummyNoMore,
most would agree that oil consumption is not a contraindication for surgery. 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

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.   Cannabis is fine , there is no wound issues with this , however, nicotine can create wound issues due to decreasing circulation to tissue.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You need to discuss this with your surgeon since each surgeon has his/her preference of what medications you should stop prior to surgery. I would definitely avoid anything the night prior to surgery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The cannabis oil that you take should not impact your surgery, however it is important to discuss all medications and supplements that you take with your surgeon prior to surgery.  Your surgeon will advise you if there is anything that needs to be stopped prior to surgery and the time frame to do so.

Johnson C. Lee, MD · Answer

Sublingual cannabis oil should not have any negative effects on your surgery. It is still important to let your surgeon and anesthesiologist know what you are taking so they have a comprehensive list of your medications and therapies to minimize your risks and maximize your safety. Hope this helps!Johnson C. Lee MDBoard-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Sublingual cannabis for anxiety and fibromyalgia: do I need to stop before my tummy tuck procedure?

Answers (9)