Should I Take Ozempic® Before or After Surgery?
If you’re looking for new methods of weight loss, you’ve probably heard of Ozempic® — a semaglutide-based medication taken to suppress appetite, increase satiety, and lose weight. Semaglutide injections have become a popular treatment to help healthy patients lose excess weight and can provide an effective complement to a nutritious diet and an active lifestyle. With that in mind, many men and women in Salt Lake City and beyond also wonder whether it’s safe to continue taking Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and similar weight loss medications before or after their surgical procedure. Regardless of whether you’re interested in breast augmentation, tummy tuck surgery, or a full Mommy Makeover, it’s imperative to stop taking Ozempic® (as well as other forms of semaglutide) at least two weeks prior to your surgical date.
According to president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists* (ASA) Michael Champeau, MD, “patients [should] stop taking weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic® and Wegovy® prior to surgery” — particularly procedures using general anesthesia — due to the increased potential for complications like delayed stomach emptying and gastric content aspiration. If you’re thinking about surgery in the future, it’s pivotal to discuss these plans with medical professionals and your healthcare team. This helps ensure your primary care doctor is able to create the most effective treatment plan to achieve your goals while also safeguarding your health.
Dr. Garlick implores you to disclose any and all medications you’re currently taking during your consultation so he can better maximize your safety while planning your procedure. Our skilled medical team also includes a PA who specializes in weight loss, allowing our patients to always receive the highest caliber of guidance and care.
It’s important to be well-informed about the various medication and activity restrictions required before plastic surgery to help lower the potential risk of complications, and maximize your safety. Contact Dr. Garlick at our Utah practice to book a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon or for more information.