Tummy Tuck Surgery and Antidepressants?

Question

Hi- I am currently on antidepressant Venlafaxine (generic brand for Effexor) and have read different things about being able to continue taking it and/or not to take it and discontinue two weeks prior to Tummy Tuck surgery. Can anyone verify this? I already talked to my surgeon, and feel I did not get a direct answer on this. Appreciate your input in advance.

Paul Gill, MD · Answer

I have not seen nor heard of significant effects associated with antidepressants and tummy tuck surgery.   I will typically ask for clearance from the prescribing doctor of your antidepressant if there is any concern.

	 

	Dr. Gill

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Though you might be safe to continue your Effexor during your tummy tuck, keep in mind that the medication is known to cause increased bleeding and bruising when combined with antiinflammatory medication your might need when recovering. Talk to your doctor, and if you can stop the medication for your elective surgery.

Stuart B. Kincaid, MD, FACS (in memoriam) · Answer

In our practice we tell our patients not to take any blood thinning medication 2 weeks prior to surgery and 2 weeks after surgery. You do not want to bleed or bruise more then you have too. I don’t believe Effexor is a blood thinning medication you should be ok.

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