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

   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

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!

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.