Which Medications Could Interfere with Recovery After a Tummy Tuck?

This is not a simple answer and most plastic surgeons will provide you with a list of medications to avoid as well as review the current medications you are currently on and advise you regarding cessation or discontinuation around your surgical date.

Certain medications can interfere with the recovery process after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) by increasing the risk of complications or slowing down healing. It’s important to discuss your medications with your surgeon before the procedure. Some medications that can interfere with tummy tuck recovery include: 1. Blood Thinners: Medications like aspirin, warfarin, or certain anti-inflammatory drugs can increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery.2. NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): These drugs can impair blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Your surgeon may advise you to avoid them for a period before and after surgery.3. Herbal Supplements: Some herbal supplements, such as ginkgo biloba, garlic, and ginseng, can affect blood clotting and healing. Inform your surgeon if you’re taking any.4. Steroids: Corticosteroids can weaken the immune system and slow down the healing process.5. Some Antidepressants: Certain antidepressant medications may increase the risk of bleeding and affect anesthesia.6. Smoking and Nicotine: Nicotine can reduce blood flow, delaying healing. It’s crucial to quit smoking well in advance of the surgery and avoid nicotine products during recovery.7. Diabetes Medications: If you have diabetes, your surgeon and endocrinologist will work together to manage your medications before and after surgery to ensure optimal healing.It’s essential to be transparent with your surgeon about all the medications and supplements you’re taking so they can provide guidance for a successful tummy tuck recovery.

In general, patients should avoid blood thinners such as aspirin and certainly teel your doctor about any herbal medications you take. Your surgeon should give you a list of do's and don'ts.

You should review all your medications that you are taking with your doctor.  In general, I tell patientsw to avoid alcohol post-op because often patients are given pain meds and they may potentiate the effects.

After a tummy tuck, patients must pay close attention to the recovery process. Patients should avoid blood centers such as aspirin and herbal medications. A tight compression garment will also assist the patient and recovering from such a procedure. The compression garment will help reduce the amount and limit the amount of discomfort. On our website, we have a full list of medications that patients should avoid before and after their surgery. You are welcome to the website and download a copy for yourself.