What Medications Should I Stop Before My Surgery?

What Medications Should I Stop Before My Surgery?
Proper preoperative preparation is essential for a safe surgical procedure and optimal recovery. One of the most common questions patients ask is:
👉 What medications should I stop before my surgery?

Several commonly used medications can increase bleeding, interfere with anesthesia, delay wound healing, or raise the risk of surgical complications. Below is a detailed and easy-to-understand guide.

 
1. Oral Contraceptives

Hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, patches, or vaginal rings) contain estrogen, which can increase the risk of blood clots, especially during long surgeries or aesthetic procedures.

🔹 Why stop them?
• Increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Increased risk of pulmonary embolism

🔹 Typical recommendation:
Discontinue 4 weeks before surgery, depending on the type of procedure and individual risk factors.

⚠️ Alternative contraception should be used during this period.

 
2. Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic Acid)

Aspirin is one of the most common medications that must be stopped before surgery because it affects platelet function.

🔹 Risks:
• Excessive bleeding during surgery
• Increased bruising and hematoma formation
• Delayed healing

🔹 When to stop:
Usually 7 to 10 days before surgery, unless otherwise directed by your physician.

 
3. Ibuprofen and Other NSAIDs

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as:

• Ibuprofen
  
• Naproxen
  
• Diclofenac
  
• Ketorolac
  can also increase bleeding risk.

🔹 Recommended suspension:
At least 7 days before surgery.

 
4. Retinoids (Topical and Oral)

Retinoids, which are vitamin A derivatives commonly used for acne and skin treatments, may negatively affect wound healing.

• Oral retinoids
  
• Isotretinoin
  
• Acitretin
  🔹 Risks:
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Increased risk of hypertrophic or keloid scars

🔹 Recommended suspension:
Generally 6 months before surgery, depending on the procedure.

Topical retinoids
Tretinoin
Retinol
Adapalene
🔹 When to stop:
2 to 4 weeks before surgery.

 
5. Vitamin A Derivatives and Supplements

Some vitamin A supplements may interfere with tissue regeneration and skin healing.

🔹 Recommendation:
Discontinue at least 2 weeks before surgery.

 
6. Other Common Medications That Should Be Stopped Before Surgery

Depending on each patient’s medical history, the following may need to be discontinued:

• Blood thinners (warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban)*
  
• Clopidogrel
  
• Heparin
  
• Vitamin E
  
• Ginkgo biloba
  
• Ginseng
  
• Omega-3 (fish oil)
  
• Herbal or “natural” supplements
  * Always under strict medical supervision.

 
Never Stop Medications Without Medical Guidance
Every patient is unique, and not all medications need to be stopped in every case. A comprehensive preoperative evaluation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential to determine which medications should be discontinued and when.

 
Final Thoughts
If you are wondering what medications should I stop before my surgery, the safest answer is: only those specifically indicated by your surgeon. Proper medication management reduces complications, improves surgical outcomes, and ensures a smoother recovery.

👉 Always inform your surgeon about all medications, supplements, and skin treatments you are using before any surgical procedure.