Finding plastic surgeon when on Suboxone?

Question

I need a breast implant revision, and am on Suboxone for addiction treatment. Tired of going to consultations with doctors who do not see patients on Suboxone. How do I find one who will do it? If I ask the receptionist before booking the appt, will they know the answer/what I mean? Have found one doc who will do it, and says she just uses a nerve-block afterwards but she's inconveniently located. Got me asking the classic addict's question that is: "Dude, where's my boobs?

Jonathan Brower, MD · Answer

I have taken care of numerous patients on suboxone without any issues. My practice is to communicate directly with the prescribing provider to ensure that all three of us have a concrete post-op pain management plan that keeps the patient on track. I think you're right to call around to ask different doctors about their comfort level. Good luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Not all of us are "Dudes." You can ask the receptionist or ask to speak to the nurse who might know the answer. I have done surgery on other ladies on this medication. You will need your prescriber's medical clearance and advice for pain control.  Nerve blocks or pain pumps are helpful, plus medications like Tordol and Neurontin and muscle relaxers if the implant is placed behind the muscle.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Your case requires direct communication with your prescribing pain specialist.  There are medications ( 'Exparel' -a bit costly ~$600) which relieve much of the postoperative pain for 1-2 days.  This would be an essential requirement for me to consider your revision.
Best wishes,
Dr. Taranow

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Just so you understand, the problem with Suboxone is not that you have had an addiction issue. The problem is that it blocks the ability of pain meds to work for you after surgery. Patients can experience what they universally call "burning searing pain." This can even be so bad that it requires extremely expensive hospital admission without insurance coverage. Just being off for a day or two doesn't work. You really need to explain to your prescribing doctor that you need to get off that med but many of these doctors see it as something for the rest of your life.

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