Proper medication management before plastic surgery is crucial for your safety and optimal surgical outcomes. Certain medications and supplements can increase bleeding risk, interfere with anesthesia, or affect healing processes. At Silk Plastic Surgery, we provide comprehensive guidance to help you safely prepare for your procedure while maintaining your overall health.
Always consult with both your plastic surgeon and prescribing physicians before making any changes to your medications. Never stop prescription medications without medical supervision.
Dr. Page is an excellent surgeon who showed me so much patience and personal care throughout multiple reconstruction and revision surgeries. She and Dr. McKay collaborated on one surgery, both are amazing. My results are great so I would choose this practice again. Her staff are top notch and always answered any questions promptly. I’m convinced that I got the very best care from Dr. Page.
Essential Pre-Surgery Medication Guidelines
Starting two weeks before your surgery date, you’ll need to discontinue or modify certain medications and supplements. This timeline allows your body to clear these substances and reduces potential complications during and after your procedure.
Critical Safety Reminders
Prescription Medications
Never stop without consulting your prescribing doctor first
Blood Thinners
Require special coordination with your physician before any type of surgery
Diabetes Medications
May need adjustment but should never be stopped abruptly
Heart Medications
Require careful management and medical supervision
“Patient safety is our top priority, which is why we provide detailed medication guidelines well in advance of surgery,” explains Dr. Page. “Following these instructions carefully helps ensure the safest possible surgical experience and optimal healing.”
Blood-Thinning Medications to Discontinue
These medications increase bleeding risk during surgery and must be stopped at the appropriate time before your procedure:
Prescription Blood Thinners
- Aspirin: Stop 2 weeks before surgery (unless prescribed for heart protection)
- Warfarin (Coumadin): Timing determined by your prescribing physician
- Clopidogrel (Plavix): Usually stopped 7-10 days before surgery
- Rivaroxaban (Xarelto): Typically discontinued 2-3 days before surgery
- Apixaban (Eliquis): Usually stopped 2-3 days before surgery
Important Note: If you take blood thinners for heart conditions or stroke prevention, coordinate with your cardiologist or primary care physician before stopping. Some patients may require bridging therapy or alternative medications.
Over-the-Counter Medications to Avoid
Many common over-the-counter medications can interfere with surgery and healing:
- NSAIDs: Ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), diclofenac stop 2 weeks before
- Aspirin-Containing Products: Check labels carefully as many combination medications contain aspirin
- Cold Medications: Many contain ingredients that affect blood pressure or bleeding
- Pain Relievers: Stick to acetaminophen (Tylenol) when needed for pain relief
Herbal Supplements and Natural Products
Natural doesn’t always mean safe for surgery. Many herbal supplements can cause unexpected interactions:
Supplements to Stop 2 Weeks Before Surgery:
- Ginkgo Biloba: Increases bleeding risk
- Garlic Supplements: Can affect blood clotting
- Ginseng: May interfere with blood sugar and blood pressure
- St. John’s Wort: Affects how your body processes anesthesia
- Vitamin E: High doses can increase bleeding
- Fish Oil/Omega-3: Can affect blood clotting in high doses
Additional Concerns:
- Green Tea Extract: High concentrations may affect bleeding
- Turmeric/Curcumin: Can increase bleeding risk
- Feverfew: Affects blood clotting
- Dong Quai: Blood-thinning properties
Safe Medications During Pre-Surgery Period
Some medications are generally safe to continue before plastic surgery:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Safe for pain relief when needed
- Most Antibiotics: Usually safe to continue as prescribed
- Thyroid Medications: Should be continued as prescribed
- Most Blood Pressure Medications: Often continued with possible morning-of-surgery modifications
Special Considerations for Chronic Conditions
If you have ongoing health conditions, medication management requires careful coordination:
Diabetes Management
Your diabetes medications may need adjustment, especially if you’re required to fast before surgery. Work with your endocrinologist or primary care physician to develop a plan for the day of surgery.
Heart Conditions
Heart medications are typically continued, but timing on the day of surgery may be modified. Your cardiologist should be involved in pre-operative planning.
High Blood Pressure
Most blood pressure medications are continued, but some may be held on the morning of surgery. Follow specific instructions from your surgical team.
Creating Your Personal Medication Plan
During your pre-operative consultation, we’ll review all your medications and supplements to create a personalized plan. This includes:
- Complete Medication Review: Discussion of all prescription and over-the-counter medications
- Timeline Creation: Specific dates for stopping and resuming medications
- Alternative Options: Safe pain relief options during the pre-surgery period
- Coordination of Care: Communication with your other physicians when necessary
Questions to Ask About Your Medications
Come prepared to discuss these important points:
- Essential vs. Optional: Which medications are absolutely necessary for your health?
- Timing Questions: Exactly when should you stop and restart specific medications?
- Alternative Options: What can you safely take for pain or other symptoms?
- Emergency Situations: When should you contact your surgeon or other physicians?
Day of Surgery Medication Instructions
You’ll receive specific instructions about which medications to take on the morning of surgery. Generally:
- Take with Minimal Water: Only essential medications with small sips of water
- Avoid All Others: Don’t take medications not specifically approved
- Bring Current List: Have an updated list of all medications with you
About Silk Plastic Surgery
At Silk Plastic Surgery, we blend advanced surgical expertise with a personalized, compassionate approach to help you look and feel your best. Our team includes double board-certified surgeons, who trained at prestigious institutions such as the Mayo Clinic and Emory University. We are dedicated to achieving natural, refined results that enhance your unique beauty. Every detail of your experience is designed to make you feel comfortable, confident, and fully supported from consultation to recovery.
We specialize in a comprehensive range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures for the face, breast, and body, offering both transformative enhancements and delicate restorative care. Whether you’re seeking subtle refinement or a significant change, our commitment to safety, precision, and artistry ensures beautiful, lasting results. At Silk Plastic Surgery, your goals inspire our work, and your confidence is our greatest success.
Your Safety is Our Priority at Silk Plastic Surgery in Atlanta
Proper medication management before plastic surgery is essential for your safety and optimal outcomes. Our team at Silk Plastic Surgery provides detailed, personalized guidance to help you navigate pre-operative medication changes safely. Contact our Atlanta practice today to review your medications and ensure you’re fully prepared for your upcoming procedure.