How long do I need to be off methotrexate in order to have tummy tuck?

Question

I was recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and have been taking methotrexate 15mg each week for about a month now. I'm under 30 and within the bmi range to have procedure done as well as no other health issues. How long do I have to be off my medication in order to schedule Tummy tuck?

Andrew Ray, DO · Answer

I always work in conjunction with your rheumatologist. Generally 1-2 weeks for most cosmetic surgeons. There is some research that says you can stay on it without causing any complications with surgery. However it is new research and many surgeons would be hesitant to do that when we are doing a big surgery like liposuction and a tummy tuck.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Ask your board certified PS or rheumatologist for their advice, but methotrexate treatment is usually not stopped in patients whose disease is controlled by the drug. Several studies have reported that methotrexate does not increase the risk of either infections or of surgical complications occurring in patients taking the medication.

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I would defer this decision to your rheumatologist or the doctor who is prescribing the medication. You should also be getting a medical clearance from this doctor. Generally speaking, this type of medication is generally stopped 1-2 weeks prior to surgery and started back 1-2 weeks after surgery. There have been some studies showing that patients can stay on the medication throughout surgery and do fine, but I think if you are OK without it for a period, it would be best not to risk it. Hope this helps!Dallas R. Buchanan, MD, FACSOwner & Board-Certified Plastic SurgeonVIVIFY plastic surgery

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear dayagi4,
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

Sean Satey, MD, FACS · Answer

The answer is variable based on who you ask. The best person to consult for this is your rheumatologist (prescribing physician) and have a frank discussion regarding surgical risks with your surgeon. In my practice, patients are typically off Methotrexate for 2 weeks prior to surgery, and resume it 1 week post-operatively. This varies on a case by case basis. Best, Dr. Satey.

How long do I need to be off methotrexate in order to have tummy tuck?

Answers (9)

Answer: Preoperative protocol

Answer: Preoperative protocol

Answer: Methotrexate and Tummy Tucks

Answer: Methotrexate and Tummy Tucks

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How long do I need to be off methotrexate in order to have tummy tuck?

Answers (9)

Answer: Preoperative protocol

Answer: Preoperative protocol

Answer: Methotrexate and Tummy Tucks

Answer: Methotrexate and Tummy Tucks

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Diastasis Recti Repair

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.