Why do I need a urine test on the morning of my breast augmentation?

Hi. We do not require a urine test of post-menopausal women or women who have had a previous hysterectomy. The obvious need for a urine test is concerns about pregnancy. Good luck, Dr. PG

The only reason that is mandatory is for pregnancy, but some facilities/surgeons choose to screen for urinary tract infections. 

I think someone is just following protocol without thinking. We allow our patients to opt out if they sign a release and don't require a urine test if they are past menopause. Ask your surgeon for the rationale. Best of LuckDr. JA. Dean Jabs M.D., Ph.D.Board Certified Plastic SurgeonBethesda MD/McLean VA

The most common reason for a preoperative uring test is for pregnancy. However, some surgeons will routinely check for nicotine as well. To find out the answer in your case, ask your surgeon!

If you are of childbearing age, it is typically for a pregnancy test.  If so, congratulations!  Your probably look very young :-)  Otherwise, it may be for nicotine.  It would be to confirm that your body is nicotine free in order to have the best possible chance at good wound healing and a successful outcome.  Always feel free to ask questions, both of your surgical team and your surgeon.

Most likely your surgeon or facility routinely tests patients, the day of surgery, for pregnancy.  In your case, remind your surgeon that you are post-menopausal.   Best wishes.

Only reason is if you did not do one pre operatively checking if you have any possible UTI. Otherwise no other reason. 

There are many reasons for urine tests but the most common reasons in a plastic surgery ambulatory center are for pregnancy and nicotine. The pregnancy test is mandated by the most rigorous accrediting association AAAASF) and is necessary in all patients "of childbearing age." A nicotine test is not mandated but may be done by any surgeon who has asked his patients to stop smoking. The reason for this is that nicotine constricts the blood vessels and inhibits the healing process. I do not perform facelifts, breast lifts or tummy tucks in a patient who smokes. You are best to ask the surgeon or nurse at the facility what is the rationale of the test and what it is for. I never allow my patients to opt out since it a requirment of the accrriting association and the accreditation could be lost for not properly following the rules.

Unless you are exhibiting signs or symptoms of a urinary tract infection, or are a pre-/peri-menopausal woman, there is no need for a urine test on the day of surgery.  Sometimes surgery centers follow protocols without thinking.