Heparin (8 Shots Per Day for 8 Days After BBL Surgery). What Are Your Thoughts?

 Heparin is typically prescribed in units instead of mg. Heparin is not necessary.  Early and often walking after surgery is very effective against blood clot prevention.

Dr. ES

Prophylaxis against Deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary emboli, depend on scientific basis. se of the Caprini scale is one such science. It depends on your history, family history, length of surgery, weight (BMI), and other factors.Also there are other blood thinners that are probably safer and better (in my opinion) than heparin. You and your doctor have to discuss your risk factors and the merit of prophylaxis or not. You both need to agree and understand the pros and cons of either decision.

There are no absolute answers to this.  In general, one or more doses of an anti-coagulant, such as heparin, may be given at the start of (and possibly for some time after) certain plastic surgical procedures, such as tummy tucks.  Depending on your BMI, the duration of your surgery, the type of anesthesia (general anesthesia is associated with more vasodilatation than is intravenous sedation, and so may cause more pooling and blood clots), etc.  Have a calm, reasoned discussion with your surgeon about this issue, as well as the other surgical issues.  Regardless of what you decide, early ambulation and adequate hydration are helpful in combating blood clots and their sequelae.

I hope that this helps and good luck,

Dr. E