Are we supposed to use Water Pills after liposuction surgery? Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Question

I've read many blogs from RS Sisters and see that many are purchasing and using Water Pills (OTC) post op after having liposuction. Is this a recommended practice? If so what is the recommended dosage? I'm 5'6" 170lbs. Thank you

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I prescribe water pills to all my post op liposuction patients, many do not and only care about post operative compression.  I suggest going with your doctors post operative protocol and asking them directly this question.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Because of the potential for significant volume shifts related to liposuction surgery diuretics should only be used under the careful watch of your own surgeon. Vast majority of surgeons would not prescribe them. Certainly don't take them on your own.

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

I do not recommend water pills after any surgery. It is perfectly normal to swell and retain fluid after the stress of a surgical procedure. That is how the body responds to stress and heals naturally. The extra fluid will be mobilized and the swelling will go down. I do not recommend anything that interferes with the body's physiology as the risk can outweigh the benefit. I would follow all your plastic surgeon's instructions to avoid problems and avoid the tendency to "self treat" based on advice from a person's  anecdotal experience.

J. Howell Tiller, MD · Answer

Well, some surgeons recommend them and some don't' it's a matter of opinion, neither is wrong or right.  I myself do not recommend water pills.  They are just one medication thrown into the many that you are probably already taking (antibiotics, pain pills, sedatives, etc., etc.,) that I don't see the benefit.  The swelling that the water pills are supposed to help reduce goes away by itself progressively.

Gustavo E. Galante, MD · Answer

If you are a healthy individual, there is no reason you should need or require a diuretic (water pill). Your body knows to rid itself of excess fluid when necessary. Diuretics may have unwanted side effects and complications as well.

Eric A. Weiss, MD, FACS · Answer

It is rare that surgeons would recommend a water pill after surgery. It is normal to swell and hold on to fluid, in case you need to make up for blood loss. Its part of the normal response to injury. A water pill can make you dehydrated, which can delay healing, increase the risk of infection, as well as put you at risk for a DVT(blood clot). I would stay away from them unless specifically instructed by your surgeon.Eric Weiss MD

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

I sometimes recommend a diuretic post but that is a decision your chosen Miami surgeon, Dr Ortega, MUST make! BTW results appear good...

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Taking water pills after your surgery is not a recommended practice. Swelling after surgery is a normal occurrence and will be resolved naturally by your body. Any attempt to help the fluid dissipate by taking medications may only lead to complications in fluid and electrolyte balance and should therefore be avoided unless medically indicated. I hope this helps. Best of luck.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

No, I would not you recommend the use of "water pills";  as a matter of fact, I would discourage the use of any medications that are not prescribed.  These types of medications can lead to serious fluid and/or electrolyte related complications. Best wishes.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Water pills or diuretics have no significant usefulness after liposuction.If they are OTC then they probably have minimal impact anyway.  Some doctors will prescribe diuretics in an attempt to control swelling after liposuction.In the end they have little benefit and are not needed.  Best,Mats Hagstrom M.D.

Are we supposed to use Water Pills after liposuction surgery? Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Answers (10)

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