Shaving prior to surgery. Is it a good idea?

Question

I am having a tummy tuck on the 14th of April, and I was curious (because I forgot to ask my doc) if I should shave the pelvic and vaginally area before the surgery? Or if it's a bad idea to do that?

Chad K. Wheeler, MD · Answer

Shaving a couple of days before surgery is fine but don't do it with in 36 hours as it increases the infection rate if you do

Dallas Buchanan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. This is not a common question, but it is an important one. There is pretty decent evidence that shaving prior to surgery causes trauma to the skin and can stir up bacteria and result in increased infection rates. To that end, I usually recommend to my patients to not shave prior to surgery. Hope this helps!

Craig Harrison, MD · Answer

Shaving in the immediate pre op period, adjacent to a planned surgical site, poses an increased infection risk.  I advise my patients to avoid shaving in the pubic region for a week prior to a tummy tuck.  Your surgeon may have a different preference.  I am not aware of a study to exactly determine the best period to stop grooming pre op.  Best wishes

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Best to consult with your board-certified plastic surgeon about this.  There is a possibility that this could pose risks of infection after the operation but your operation is still 2 weeks away so ask your surgeon and follow his/her advice.  Best of luck. Dr. Michael OmidiAn in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and provide true medical advice.

Terrence Murphy, MD · Answer

The problem with shaving before surgery is that a few nick yourself bacteria can set into the wound which can increase the risk of infection.I would be sure to ask your surgeon his or her preference to shaving prior to surgery. Either way be careful how you do it to make sure that you don't cause any problems

Brian Windle, MD (retired) · Answer

Shaving just prior to surgery has been shown to increase
surgical site infection rates.  There is
no need to shave prior to surgery but if you want to you should follow the
recommendation of your surgeon.  Usually
avoiding shaving within a couple of days prior to surgery is all that is
recommended.

I hope that helps.

Best regards.

Robert A. Hardesty, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Dear Ms. Beausmom20,Thank you for your information and questions. Shaving several days before surgery increase infection rate because of the micro abrasions and cuts in the skin. I personally ask patients not to shave for 1 week prior.However I would ask your Plastic Surgeon this question.I trust you have chosen a Plastic Surgeon who is experienced and Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. In addition ideally a members  of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (denoting by membership as having met additional criteria and a focus on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery).I wish you my best and success,R. A. Hardesty, MD, FACSDiplomate and Certified by the Am. Bd. of Plastic Surgerywwwimagineplasticsurgery.com4646 Brockton AveRiverside, Ca 92506(951) 686-7600

Ronald V. DeMars, MD (Retired) · Answer

Shaving is ok but not within 48 hours of the surgery as it could increase risk of infection. Your surgeon's nurse will complete an necessary shaving after you are asleep.

Shaving prior to surgery. Is it a good idea?

Answers (8)

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