Opioids and Plastic Surgery: 5 Things to Know
If you pay attention to current events, you know that there’s rising concern about the medical community and opioid addiction in this country. And with the Associated Press just confirming that Prince’s death was due to an overdose, you can bet the buzz will escalate.
This is a good thing. We are absolutely in favor of the general public becoming better informed about the risks associated with common opioids such as Vicodin and Percocet. If you’re considering a cosmetic surgical procedure, you may be wondering if you should be worried.
Here’s what you should know about plastic surgery and opioids.
1. Plastic Surgery Patients Are Generally at Low Risk
Because most patients only take prescription medication for pain relief for a few to several days following their procedure, the risk of opioid addiction, or even dependence, with plastic surgery is very low.
Patients undergoing surgery that involves much more pain for longer periods, such as orthopedic surgery, are at a higher risk of becoming physically dependent or addicted. In fact, about a year ago an article in Forbes, citing research by The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, noted that doctors in the field are the third highest prescribers of opioid medications in the country. Only primary care doctors and internists prescribe more.
2. Even Most Patients with Chronic Pain Are not Addicted
It is not unusual at all for people with chronic pain—such as those with severe arthritis, or multiple sclerosis—to become physically dependent on opioids. According to HealthCentral.com, this means the patient becomes accustomed to the medication and sudden suspension will cause withdrawal symptoms. This can happen with drugs that are not opioids as well, such as anti-depressants and steroids, and is not considered addiction.
HealthCentral explains that addiction is characterized by poor control over drug use, compulsive use, cravings and continued use in spite of harm caused. In a review of 24,000 patients with chronic pain, HealthCentral found only seven were truly addicted to opioids.
3. Plastic Surgeons Are on the Alert
Board certified plastic surgeons (who perform at least three years of specific plastic surgery training) learn about pain control for their patients during internships and residencies. They know that patients having procedures that are less invasive, such as eyelid surgery, generally require a minimal supply of prescription pain meds. More extensive surgery, such as tummy tucks, may dictate a more extended dose. Few plastic surgeons authorize refills of these prescriptions without investigating what’s happening for the patient.
As opioid prescription started to rise in the U.S., the National Institutes of Health (through the National Library of Medicine’s website) began recommending that plastic surgeons be on the alert for patients’ verbal and non-verbal cues about potential abuse of opioids. It’s certain that the focus will sharpen even further.
4. Your Plastic Surgeon Needs to Know About your Medications
When you commit to plastic surgery, one important step is to tell your surgeon about all the medications you take. This includes prescription drugs, over the counter medication and street drugs. This way, your doctor will be able to evaluate the possible risks associated with drug combinations and better understand your general physical and psychological health.
5. Pain Control is Important
If you receive a prescription prior to plastic surgery, be sure to fill the order and take the medication as needed. If you suffer more than minor discomfort, don’t try to grin and bear it, or tough it out with over the counter drugs that may not be sufficient.
Controlling pain can help speed your recovery and reduce risks. One example is that walking and other gentle movement can virtually eliminate the chance of developing blood clots. You should feel able to follow your surgeon’s recommendations for incorporating light activity on schedule during your recovery process.
There’s no need to be overly concerned about taking prescription pain medication following plastic surgery. As long as you take drugs according to your surgeon’s directions and discontinue their use when you no longer need them, you’ll be fine. If you are worried about it, for whatever the reason, do bring up your concerns during your consultation appointment.
If we can help with this or any other topic related to plastic surgery, don’t hesitate to get in touch.
