Why is prednisone prescribed for breast augmentation, what are the benefits?

Hello, thank you for your question. Prednisone is a steroid and works as a strong anti-inflammatory. It helps with swelling which can occur post operatively. It is really up to the surgeon whether or not they would like to use it.

Hello,
Thank you for the question.
It is not routine practice to prescribe prednisone after breast augmentation. Occasionally, it can be prescribed to decrease the risk or capsular contracture formation but it has not been proven beneficial in large studies.
I would discuss your questions and concerns with your Plastic Surgeon.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzBreast Fellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dear wa1988,
every plastic surgeon has his own preoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for sharing your question. I have never prescribed prednisone for a breast augmentation and I would ask your surgeon the purpose of the medication.

Short term use of Prednisone can be helpful to minimize swelling. However, Prednisone does has some risks and can slow healing, and most of us do not feel it is needed in this kind of surgery. Ask your surgeon why.

Prednisone is a steroid that can be used to reduce swelling. It may be used in the case of an allergic reaction in moderate to severe cases. It is not typically prescribed routinely for a breast augmentation. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

There really isn't any convincing evidence (randomised controlled trials), that I am aware of, that supports a single dose of steroid. It is however not uncommon practice throughout surgery and the logic is, that it reduces swelling. It has been studied in breast surgery, tonsillectomy, wisdom tooth removal to name a few, most studies are fail to show a convincing benefit. It is known to produce a sense of euphoria and well being which might help in the day procedure setting. Focusing on nerve blocks and systemic pain medication is more valuable in my opinion.