Pre op cold meds recommendations?

Thank you for your question regarding your upcoming tummy tuck and liposuction. It’s great that you’re being mindful of your health as your surgery date approaches. With a hoarse voice and mild cough, it’s important to take some precautions. Over-the-counter cold medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used for mild symptoms, and a saline nasal spray can help if you’re experiencing congestion. However, avoid medications containing NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, as they can increase your risk of bleeding. Stick to options that have been approved by your surgeon or primary care physician.

It’s also important to avoid herbal remedies like echinacea or high-dose vitamin E, as these can interfere with healing or increase bleeding risk. Focus on staying hydrated, drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol, and prioritizing rest to help your body recover from any lingering symptoms. As for the likelihood of your surgery being canceled, the anesthesiologist’s primary concern is your airway and ability to safely undergo surgery. A mild, non-productive cough with no other symptoms may not lead to cancellation, especially if your lungs are clear, and you’re free of fever or significant congestion. However, if your symptoms worsen, such as increased coughing, fever, or chest tightness, your surgery may be postponed for your safety.

Be sure to inform your surgeon’s office immediately about your symptoms so they can guide you on the next steps. They may recommend pre-operative clearance or evaluation by your primary care physician if necessary. In the meantime, rest as much as possible, avoid strenuous activities, and follow your surgeon’s instructions. If your symptoms improve over the next few days and you’re symptom-free by your surgery date, it’s likely you’ll be able to proceed as planned. Wishing you a smooth recovery and a successful surgery!

Sincerely,
J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS

Hello and thank you for your question.
Reach out to your surgeon for guidance on what medications are okay to take and if any other precautions need yo be taken. Best wishes!

An abdominoplasty is a major surgery that will involve correcting diastasis in your abdomen, the muscle separation many woman experience after pregnancy. You will find that coughing after surgery can be really uncomfortable and result in a pulling sensation in your abdomen. It would be prudent to speak with your surgeon and anesthesia team to discuss what medications you can take preop that will not cause blood thinning, and discuss an alternate plan if you are not feeling well. Anesthesia would consider rescheduling if you have an active cough or sound hoarse.