GLP-1 Medications and Plastic Surgery: What You Need to Know

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At Straith Clinic, patient safety has always been at the center of everything we do. As more patients turn to GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® for weight management, we’ve seen a growing need to address how these treatments may affect plastic surgery planning. Whether you are considering a body contouring procedure, facial surgery, or breast enhancement, it’s important to understand how GLP-1 usage can interact with anesthesia and recovery, and why clear communication with your surgeon is so important.

Why Your Surgeon Needs to Know About GLP-1 Use

GLP-1 medications work by slowing down digestion and gastric emptying. While this effect can support weight loss, it also changes how your body responds to anesthesia. When food remains in the stomach longer, there is a higher risk of aspiration, where stomach contents enter the lungs during anesthesia. This can lead to serious complications. At Straith Clinic, both Dr. Sabbagh and Dr. Baca stress the importance of patients sharing their complete medication history during consultation so they can tailor surgical plans to ensure the safest outcome.

How GLP-1s Can Affect Healing

Recovery after plastic surgery depends on proper nutrition, hydration, and the body’s ability to heal efficiently. Because GLP-1 medications can sometimes affect appetite and nutrient intake, they may influence how quickly the body bounces back. Our surgeons carefully evaluate each patient’s overall health, weight stability, and lifestyle factors to make sure healing can progress smoothly. For many patients, pausing medication is a short-term step that greatly improves safety and reduces the likelihood of complications.

Timing Is Everything: When to Stop GLP-1s Around Surgery

For those preparing for surgery, the safest approach is to:

• Stop GLP-1 medication at least 2 weeks before surgery
• Remain off the medication for 1-2 weeks after surgery

This precaution gives the digestive system time to return to normal function and allows anesthesia to be administered more safely. It is also important to eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein and nutrients, even if you are eating less. This will supply your body with the building blocks it needs to best heal from surgery. At Straith Clinic, your surgeon will work directly with you, and when appropriate, your prescribing physician, to determine the best timeline for stopping and resuming medication based on your unique health profile.

The Positive Side: GLP-1s and Achieving Your Goals

While there are important safety steps to follow, it’s not all about what to avoid. For many patients, GLP-1 medications have been life-changing in helping them reach a healthier, more stable weight before pursuing surgery. Achieving or approaching your goal weight can improve surgical outcomes, reduce the risk of complications, and allow your surgeon to create results that are more refined and longer lasting. Straith Clinic does not prescribe or recommend specific medications, but we recognize that for some individuals, GLP-1s can be part of the journey toward feeling confident in their bodies, and surgery may be the final step in that transformation.

The Straith Clinic Difference

Every patient is unique, and so is every surgical plan. That’s why our surgeons emphasize open communication during consultation. If you are using a GLP-1 medication, or have recently discontinued it, Dr. Sabbagh and Dr. Baca will work with you to create a surgical timeline that prioritizes safety and supports your long-term results. From your first visit through recovery, Straith Clinic is committed to providing the highest level of care, ensuring you feel informed and supported at every step.

The Bottom Line

GLP-1 medications and plastic surgery can go hand in hand, but only with the right precautions. The most important step you can take is to be transparent with your surgeon about your medication use and follow their recommendations closely. At Straith Clinic, your safety comes first, and with a thoughtful, personalized approach, we can help you achieve both safe surgery and beautiful results.