Medically reviewed by Dr. Orestes Fernández specialist in body contouring, licence no. 4304469Published on 3 November 2026
What should you not take before body surgery?
Before body surgery you should stop aspirin, turmeric and other herbal teas, and hair loss products, because they are vasodilators and increase bleeding. They are avoided two or three weeks before and, if possible, two or three weeks after.
It is one of the questions we go over most in the pre-operative consultation, and it is not only about medicines: many “natural” products taken without a second thought also affect bleeding. That is why we always ask for the full list of what you take, including herbal teas and supplements.
Prepare for your body surgery with our team
What do you need to stop taking before surgery?
“We must avoid aspirin, turmeric, other herbal teas and the products used to prevent hair loss. They are all vasodilators and increase bleeding,” explains Dr. Orestes Fernández, a plastic surgeon specialising in body contouring.
His guidance is clear: “two or three weeks before, and two or three weeks after surgery, if they can also be avoided.” More bleeding during surgery means more bruising and swelling afterwards, and a slower recovery.
What other products should you avoid?
In addition to what Dr. Orestes mentions, at your assessment we usually review these:
- Anti-inflammatories: such as ibuprofen, which also increase bleeding.
- Supplements that affect clotting: vitamin E, omega 3, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, garlic capsules or ginger.
- Smoking: it reduces blood flow to the skin and worsens healing. The sooner you stop, the better.
- Alcohol: it increases bleeding and interferes with anaesthesia; it is best avoided in the days before.
If you take anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs or any long-term medication, do not stop it on your own: we decide the plan with your doctor, weighing the risk and benefit in your case.
What if I need something for pain before surgery?
Ask first. Instead of aspirin or anti-inflammatories, paracetamol can usually be used, but check with the team, especially if you take other medication.
This applies to any body surgery, from liposuction to a tummy tuck, a buttock augmentation or a mommy makeover.
Frequently asked questions about what not to take before surgery
Which medicines are not allowed before surgery?
Those that increase bleeding: aspirin and anti-inflammatories, and vasodilator products such as hair loss treatments. Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs are never stopped on your own: the plan is decided by the doctor.
What should you not do the day before surgery?
Do not drink alcohol, do not smoke, follow the fasting instructions we give you and do not take anything that is not on your reviewed medication list. If you have a fever, a cold or any symptom, let us know before coming in.
Which vitamins should you take before cosmetic surgery?
It is best not to take supplements on your own: some, such as vitamin E or omega 3, increase bleeding. If your pre-operative blood test shows a deficiency, for example in iron, we will tell you how to correct it.
How long does it take the body to clear general anaesthesia?
The main effects wear off within hours, but during the first 24 hours you may feel drowsy and you should not drive or make important decisions. We give you specific instructions when you are discharged.