Should I stop taking Depo shot before Tummy Tuck and Lipo?

Question

I am on the Depo shot and scheduled for a Tummy Tuck and Lipo in May. My next shot is due a little under 2 weeks before my surgery date. I know it stays in your body for longer periods of time, so would stopping it even matter at that point. I am healthy, exercise regularly, non-smoker and under 25.

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

For the procedure you are considering, cessation of depo for reducing risk of DVT is controversial.  If you can stop it, it is likely a good thing to do, though you run the risk of pregnancy.  Again, no hard rules on this one, but more and more, I recommend it.

Emily J. Kirby, MD · Answer

Your surgeon will know your complete history better than anyone.  There is a risk assessment that can be done to determine your risk of blood clots after surgery.  Tummy tuck and liposuction together increase your risk, as do many other factors such as your weight, age, family history, etc.  The depo shot is a hormone shot, so stopping it will only improve your risk profile (lower the likelihood) after surgery.  Be sure to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Mary Lee Peters, MD (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question. The concern with any birth control hormones in conjunction with surgery is the formation of blood clots. It is important to discuss this with your surgeon. They know your history and would be the best one to advise you in this situation. There are steps taken to minimize the risks of DVT (deep vein thrombosis) during surgery for any patient. There are many factors that increase or decrease a patient's risk for clotting issues. Risks must be weighed against the risk of pregnancy after your surgery. If your surgeon and your gynecologist agree that it is ok to delay your shot and other forms of birth control are acceptable to you, you may want to consider rescheduling your shot. I hope this was helpful.

Should I stop taking Depo shot before Tummy Tuck and Lipo?

Answers (3)

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