It has long been believed that ibuprofen and other NSAIDs increased risks of excessive bleeding when taken before or after breast augmentation. However, a new research review published in the April 2016 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® has found that not to be the case. In fact, according to researchers, ibuprofen offers a safe and effective alternative to long-term use of more powerful prescription pain medications.
For this analysis, researchers considered four studies in which patients were assigned either ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain management. According to the authors of this review, there was no indication in any of the studies that a statically significant number of patients experienced postoperative bleeding with either type of medication. In fact, with both ibuprofen and acetaminophen, over 95% of patients saw no postoperative complications – a rate similar to complications reported with prescription pain medications.
Board-certified Los Angeles plastic surgeon Dr. Martin O’Toole works individually with each breast augmentation patient to ensure optimal comfort through proper pain management techniques. This may include prescription medications immediately following your procedure, but most women are able to switch to 400mg doses of ibuprofen within a few short days. During your free breast augmentation consultation, Dr. O’Toole will address any questions you may have about postoperative pain management and help you fully understand the options you will be provided to ensure your comfort before, during, and after your procedure.
To schedule your free consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, please contact Pasadena Cosmetic Surgery online or by calling (626) 689-7800 today. Dr. O’Toole welcomes patients from Los Angeles and all surrounding areas of California.