BBL surgery soon, how can I increase my iron?

Question

I have my surgery set up for next months, my hemo is 9.0 and u need atleast a 12.0 im taking iron, vitamin C, eat alot of green but still not sure if those gonna help for the next few weeks can anyone tell me what is the best thing to take? And if my iron will be level up by then? Thanks

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Your surgeon or hematologist should be able to recommend an appropriate regimen based upon the cause for the anemia.  Taking iron pills and Vitamin C along with eating dark leafy veggies, liver, lentils, almonds, dried apricots, beets, and other high iron foods will also help to elevate the level. Have your labs repeated a few days before your scheduled surgery.  If they remain low, ask your plastic surgeon if he/she recommends that you postpone your BBL until they reach a satisfactory level. Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Jan Hochtritt, BSc, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for your question. I am afraid you will have to take some time to bring  up your  iron level. Unless you get a  blood transfusion which is of course out of the question you will not be able to bring up the Hb level so quickly. You should take iron supplements, in your case you can try up to 200 mg a day. If you go higher if you are much likely going to experience side effects. You can also change your diet to some more iron containing foods. Remember changing diet to a healthier one is always the more sustainable method but will take some more time to be effective.  If all goes well you will still probably need around six weeks to boost up your Hb up to 12. Vitamin C has no effect on the Hb. Have a wonderful rest of the day and greetings from the beautiful island of Jamaica

Manelic Mejia Lopez, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and the information provided.
There are various ways of raising iron levels so that hemoglobin is present at levels suitable for a urological procedure. There are intravenous infusions of iron,  foods rich in iron such as legumes and grains, liver, fruits and vegetables such as peppers, beets,carrots, apple, among others.
 I recommend following your doctor's instructions and recommendations.
Best wishes.-

George Lefkovits, MD · Answer

Iron deficiency anemia is quite common. It takes a while to raise the Hemoglobin with Iron ills. You may be able to expedite it by having Iron infusion by a Hematologist. I would suggest that you consult with a Hematologist who should also,collaborate with your PS.

Manuel Belen, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi dear,
 Thanks for the questions.I would recommend you iron infusions, beetroot juice, liver, and fruits and vegetables as much as possible.  I hope this advice helps you. Best wishes.-
Manuel Belén, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

BBL surgery soon, how can I increase my iron?

Answers (5)