Is it safe to have a BBL while taking a small dosage of paxil antidepressant?

Question

I am undergoing a BBL in a few months and I have been taking the antidepressant Paxil for about 6 months after dealing with depression and anxiety, and had planned getting this surgery before that. I am 24 and otherwise healthy but the paxil has cause me to gain weight. Me true question is whether it is safe or not to undergo surgery while taking Paxil?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Most of the SSRI drugs can be taken but always tell your surgeon and anesthesiologist about all of the medications you take.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Soumo Banerji, MD · Answer

Thank you for the interesting question.  In general Paxil and other SSRI antidepressants are not a contra-indication for surgery.  It is definitely something you should document for your surgeon and anesthesiologist.  Although it is nearly impossible to predict all interactions, in general the main effect it may have is the metabolism of narcotic pain medication during and after your surgery.  Good luck!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

There are studies showing increased bleeding for patients taking Paxil.
As well, if your procedure is done using high volumes of the local anesthetic late again then there's a potential for higher rates of lidocaine toxicity.
Thousands of people undergo surgery who take these medications every day.
My personal belief is that the increased risk of surgery while taking Paxil is very small.
This is something that should've been discussed or should be discussed during your consultation.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom M.D.

Is it safe to have a BBL while taking a small dosage of paxil antidepressant?

Answers (3)