I take a blood thinner. Can I get BBL or tummy tuck?

Question

I have been told that i have to be off my blood thinners for 10 days, If I have to be off I my blood thinner for the procedure, can it be for 2 days prior and after the procedure start with lonvex injection to prevent clotting. If not what are some options for me.

Shim Ching, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, the procedures you are considering are fairly large procedures and carry more risk for you.  In my practice, I would perform a careful evaluation of your risk with your internist and/or hematologist.  You will likely need to be off of your blood thinners for longer and lovenox should best be avoided for a week after surgery.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

cosmetic surgery are generally very healthy. I typically do not recommend patient on blood thinners to have the elective surgery. There is a significant medical reason why they are on blood thinners. In my opinion this reason for outweighs discontinuation of that therapy for an elective procedure.

David Rankin, MD · Answer

You should definitely be off of blood thinners for any elective cosmetic surgery. The time will depend on the blood thinner that you are on. For example, aspirin, stops your platelets from clotting for at least 7 days, therefore if you have surgery after only stopping for 2 days, you may not be able to clot properly. If you are on Plavix or Coumadin, I would coordinate this care with your internist or hematologist to get their input about whether you are able to safely stay off these meds for an elective procedure. Lovenox after surgery is definitely an option if you are on thinners for a propensity to clot. Basically, you need to come up with a plan with your surgeon taking into account your clinical history and the input of your other caring physicians.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Only if in hospital surgery with medical attendance and risks of possible severe bleeding than you could consider this surgery. But again very very high risks....

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

If I were seeing you in my practice, I would ask you what blood thinning medication it is you are taking and why? This information will be necessary to determine the risk/benefit “ratio” associated with proceeding with surgery. Best to discuss your plans with the doctors who know you best;  the doctors who treat you for any underlying medical condition. Then, make sure that you inform your plastic surgeon  of all your medical problems/medications as well. Best wishes.

I take a blood thinner. Can I get BBL or tummy tuck?

Answers (7)