How soon before surgery should I stop drinking?

Question

I'm having a tummy tuck and fat transfer done in a month and a half. Wondering when I should stop drinking before surgery?

Chad Douglas Tattini, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It would be recommended to stop drinking 1-2 weeks before surgery, however, it is best to confirm with your surgeon as they may have more specific pre-operative guidelines for you. Good luck with your surgical journey!

Yucel Sarialtin, MD · Answer

This depends on each surgeon but in my case I recommend my patients stop drinking alcohol and smoke two weeks before the surgery.

Thomas P. Sterry, MD · Answer

I have not had a problem operating on patients who drink socially, however it is said that red wine can thin the blood a bit and in theory this could lead to more trouble with hematoma formation after surgery.  To that end, I ask folks to abstain from red wine (and all herbal supplements) for two weeks prior to surgery.  Again, I should say that I'm not aware of any problems with patients who drink - but I have seen some trouble with herbal supplements.Good Luck!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding how soon you should stop drinking before undergoing surgery. I never advise drinking. However, if you absolutely MUST drink and are planning to have a tummy tuck, you should stop two weeks before any procedure. If you have any additional questions regarding drinking alcohol before a tummy tuck and fat transfer, please contact my office. Sincerely, Dr. Katzen.

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

It is really up to your surgeon but I generally recommend that my patients stop all alcohol, tobacco and supplements that may thin the blood 2 weeks prior to surgery. Best of luck with your procedure

Christopher J. Morea, MD · Answer

Consult your plastic surgeon for his/her guidelines regarding alcohol use prior to surgery. In my practice, patients are required to discontinue alcohol use three days prior to surgery.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I permit my patients to drink, provided it's very modest, up until the day of the operation. You should follow the instructions of your own surgeon however.

Germán Newall, MD, FACS, FICS · Answer

Thanks for your question. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), it is recommended to avoid alcohol one week before surgery. However, every plastic surgeon has his or her own guidelines, so please check with your surgeon. I hope this helps! Best Wishes, Dr. Newall

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello, Dear Thank you so much for your question.About two to three weeks is best. However you should ask you surgeon for their advice as they may have different guidelines.Best regards

Alexander G. Nein, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

A week or more before surgery is best but 1 day or so would be the minimum for light alcohol consumption. After surgery while taking medications do not consume any alcohol unless you specifically discuss this with your surgeon first.

How soon before surgery should I stop drinking?

Answers (12)

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