Is it possible to have a tummy tuck done with a birth control implant in my arm called nexplanon?

Great question.  You have probably heard that many plastic surgeons have all our surgery patients stop any estrogen-containing medicines or devices at least two weeks before and two weeks after surgery in order to decrease the already small chance of forming a blood clot (VTE, DVT, PE).  This includes most oral contraceptives and most hormone replacement therapy, but does not include the progesterone-only implantable birth control devices like nexplanon.  Progesterone-only devices should not significantly increase the chances of forming a blood clot after surgery like the estrogen-containing medicines can, so we let our patients keep these devices.  Make sure to let your plastic surgeon know about any and all medicines and supplements you are taking or have in your system so you can have the highest chances of having a great outcome.

This is an important question. Birth control pills can increase your risk for clotting especially in the first several months. I would discuss this issue at length with your gynecologist and plastic surgeon for specific recommendations tailored to you and the procedures performed.

   If your DVT risk is low as assessed by the Caprini risk assessment, the implant can remain.  Tummy tuck has the highest risk for DVT of the cosmetic plastic surgery procedures performed, but most healthy patients would be low risk.  Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA

Yes, your birth control device should not interfere with a tummy tuck at all. I would just suggest letting your surgeon know prior to having the procedure done. Good luck!

There is nothing about birth control of that sort that would prevent you from safely undergoing plastic surgery. Some of the hormones commonly used in birth control can, theoretically, increase the risk of blood clots and many physicians ask that they be stopped for a few weeks surrounding an operation. They are not an absolute contraindication to surgery, however, and there are strategies that can be implemented to limit your risk in light of the implant.Best,Dr. Pyle