How long do I have to stop Lithium and Strattera before a liposuction & Fat Grafting surgery?

Question

I'm Bipolar and I take Lithium Carbonate (1200 mg) and Strattera (atomoxetine 60 mg)

Shlomo Widder, MD · Answer

Dear Kevin,   You will hear different opinions in regard to stoppage of chronic take of certain medications. Lithium is probably , universally , allowed to continue before surgery. As far as Strattera, unless your prescribing doctor insist on continuing to take it non stop, I would recommend to stop it a week to 10 days before surgery. That is because the drug can interact with anesthesia and cause complication. Good anesthesia provider can counter the complication (tachycardia, hypertension, hypotension, extra hears beats etc ) with medication, however, cosmetic surgery is purely elective, so why take the risk. Safety should be above all other consideration. You can resume your medication , right after surgery. Liposuction is a great procedure in the right hands, but fat injection to the butts is very controversial and is a waste of time and money, in my opinion. This is based on many patients who came to my surgery center for butt implants surgery after their disappointment from fat injection by other surgeons. According to them, the fat disappeared completely or almost completely, after 6-12 month or earlier.    Always, consult with experienced board certified plastic surgeons who operate in accredited surgery center for your safety. Check the before and after pictures in the photo gallery, to make sure that they are numerous, consistent and attractive.                   Best of luck,                                        Dr Widder

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I don't believe you need to stop either one of these drug before liposuction. Nevertheless, this will be cleared by your own surgeon and anesthesiologist.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You need to ask your psychiatrists about when or if you should stop these medications. Surgery is stress and you don't want to have a manic or depressive episode during the recover phase.

Burton M. Sundin, MD · Answer

You really need to check with your prescribing doctor regarding these medications. Whoever is in charge of these medications should advise you about dosing and regimen prior to any anesthesia.

Joseph Franklin, MD · Answer

There is no problem with you continuing to take lithium.   However, some anesthesia providers prefer for patients to be off of norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, like Strattera.   Would discuss with your plastic surgeon and request anesthesia clearance.

How long do I have to stop Lithium and Strattera before a liposuction & Fat Grafting surgery?

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