Alcohol consumption before liposuction under general anesthesia.

Question

How risky is it to consume alcohol in the days prior to a liposuction procedure of arms and midsection? (under general anesthesia) My surgery is scheduled for Tuesday 3/31 and was planning on drinking the Saturday and Sunday before, but not Monday.

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear Lois_cpThe most important step is to discuss this with your surgeon and follow his or her advice.In my experience, moderate consumption of 2-3 drinks per 24 hours should not significantly impact the administration of anesthesia. Drinking more may impact your metabolism of anesthetics significantly and increase the difficulty and risks of anesthesia and its complications.I would question your understanding of the serious nature of surgery if you are not willing to avoid alcohol for a few days prior to surgery. Always consult your surgeon when you are unsure of an issue to minimize the risks of complications.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I would have no problem with you having a drink or two even the night before the operation. If you give yourself a couple of days of abstinence that certainly will be more than enough.

David Hansen, MD · Answer

I recommend stopping all alcohol use 5 days before any surgery or injectables like fillers or botox to cut down on the risk of bruising. Most bruising after fillers or botox is due to either alcohol or advil or aspirin within a few days of the procedures rather than to injectors technique.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each surgeon will have her/his own protocol about alcohol consumption prior to surgery.  It is best to speak to your surgeon as she/he is most familiar with your surgical plan as well your medical history.  While answers on this forum may be helpful, it is your surgeon's opinion that you really need.

Henry Mentz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question. Every plastic surgeon has different instructions, but I tell my patients to avoid alcohol one week before surgery. However, best solution is to ask your surgeon. I hope this helps.

Windell C. Davis-Boutte, MD (license suspended) · Answer

I strongly urge my patients to avoid alcohol (and any other agents that are dehydrating) ONE FULL WEEK prior to and after surgery.  Also, alcohol DEPLETES IMPORTANT LIVER ENZYMES that are also needed to metabolize (or break down) medications, including those used during anesthesia, post-op pain medications, antibiotics, etc.Liposuction is surgery.  Surgery requires optimal systemic organ function in order to maximize recovery and results!Blessings and good luck!Windell Davis-Boutte, MD

Alcohol consumption before liposuction under general anesthesia.

Answers (6)

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