Stopping Birth Control (or hormones) before Cosmetic Surgery
Birth Control Pills and Hormone Replacement (pills, injections or patches) can increase the risk of deep-vein thrombosis (blood clots in legs) or pulmonary embolism (blood clots in lungs). To minimise this risk we recommend stopping them for two weeks before and after surgery. You should use an alternative form of birth control while off birth control pills and for one extra cycle after restarting them.
That said, stopping birth control pills is something that you should discuss with your surgeon in the weeks prior to surgery as, depending upon your chosen procedure, surgeon’s opinions and advice on this may differ.
What can I do to help achieve the best results before surgery?
Make sure that you obtain as much information as is necessary to enable you to make a fully informed choice.
Your surgeon will give you specific instructions regarding preparing for surgery, including guidelines for:
- Eating and drinking
- Smoking
- Taking or avoiding vitamins, supplements and medications
How else can I prepare?
Before your surgery, take the opportunity to ask all the questions you have about the procedure.
Also:
- Tell your surgeon about any allergies you have (to foods, drugs, environmental elements).
- Try to schedule surgery at a time other than your menstrual period
- Purchase alternative methods of birth control before your procedure and keep them in an easily accessible place
Find out more
If you would like to find out more about stopping birth control before your chosen cosmetic procedure (or arrange a consultation), contact us today by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.