Cosmetic Surgery

All You Need To Know About Diabetes And Cosmetic Surgery

Diabetes affects millions of people throughout the world. There is no doubt about that. That explains why your doctor will first ask you whether or not you’re diabetic before prescribing medication for whichever ailment or condition you have. But what exactly does this mean for a diabetic patient keen on undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure? Should the patient be concerned? The answer is yes. That’s because for a diabetic patient, healing of an incision wound takes time. That’s not all though. Read on to learn more.

Before Surgery

Be keen on your blood sugar levels and always monitor it – this must have been the first ever health tip you were given the moment you were told you are diabetic. It applies if you wish to go under the knife. Your HbA1c should be below 7% before considering any type of plastic surgery. Remember that being prudent with your blood sugar management plays a key role when it comes to incision healing after surgery.

Your cosmetic surgeon must make sure that you have an HbA1c done before surgery. The surgeon must also confer and consult with your endocrinologist so as to analyze your overall HbA1c management and control. This is important because high levels of blood glucose can easily lead to neuropathy, a condition which often results in poor blood circulation. This then makes it hard for blood to quickly reach areas of your body affected by surgery. The end result is slow healing of the incision site, putting a diabetic patient at a higher risk of infection. To be on the safe side, have a low HbA1c at least a year before going for any type of cosmetic surgery.

During Surgery

A patient’s blood sugars can be unpredictable during surgery. Your doctor may suggest different techniques to monitor the levels depending on how long your cosmetic surgery procedure will take. Be sure to check with your doctor to find out what works best for you. Typically though, a basal or long acting insulin stays the same. Only the bolus insulin gets suspended.  Your surgeon will most likely infuse intravenous insulin alongside a dextrose drip so as to prevent unwarranted hyper or hypoglycemic events from occurring.

After Surgery

Be keen with any steroids and painkillers that may be prescribed for you post surgery. Many of them can easily affect your blood glucose. Your best bet is to keep your doctor and surgeon involved throughout the process until you are completely healed.

Remember that you may not be able to eat for a few hours or even days after plastic surgery. To cope up with that, stock enough liquid carbohydrates with lows. The most efficient ones include orange juice, Gatorade, milk and orange juice. Be sure to also continue taking insulin or metformin like normal, unless your doctor advises you either to increase or decrease their use.

Finally Note

Your diabetic condition should not stop you from going go for liposuction, breast augmentation or any other cosmetic plastic surgery procedure you have always desired. You only have to consult your doctor before going into the theatre. Be sure to also refrain or completely quit habits like smoking or alcohol consumption.

This article was not written by Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D and may not represent his views. To talk to Dr. Robert S. Fischer M.D. please contact the office directly.

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