People may use cannabis post-surgery for several reasons, mainly related to pain management and recovery support. Cannabis is used extensively over the UK and USA in homes and in social situations so its important that people realise the interactions with having cosmetic surgery. There are positive points for the use of Cannabis and cosmetic surgery and negative points. It’s important that a patients knows both the positive and the negative so that patients can make informed choices before they have surgery.
Here are the most common motivations:
- Pain relief: Cannabis, especially strains high in THC or CBD, can help reduce pain. Some people prefer it over opioids due to the lower risk of addiction and side effects.
- Reducing inflammation: Cannabinoids have anti-inflammatory properties that may help with swelling and tissue healing.
- Improving sleep: Post-surgical pain and discomfort often interfere with sleep, and cannabis can promote relaxation and better sleep quality.
- Reducing opioid use: Some patients use cannabis to reduce their reliance on opioids or to manage withdrawal symptoms.
- Nausea and appetite: Cannabis can help with nausea and stimulate appetite, which can be beneficial after anesthesia or in cases where recovery affects appetite.
- Mental health support: Surgery and recovery can be stressful; cannabis is sometimes used to manage anxiety or improve mood during recovery.
However, it’s important to note that cannabis use post-surgery should always be discussed with a doctor, as it may interact with medications, anesthesia, or healing processes. Would you like info on how doctors view cannabis in a clinical recovery setting?
The cosmetic surgeon Dr Adam Kalecinski from Europe Surgery states that the problem is often the use of products that contain nicotine which reduce the size of the capillaries and can lead to necrosis of the skin post surgery. There is more information on the disadvange below on cannabis use in relation to surgery. For more information on post surgery pain relief contact.
The problem with cannabis for surgery include
- Healing and Recovery:
- There’s limited research, but heavy use might impair immune function or wound healing slightly, especially if smoked.
- Medication Interactions:
- Cannabis can interact with post-surgical medications like sedatives, anticoagulants, or antibiotics.
Before surgery cannabis is not recommended.
Before Surgery:
- Anesthesia Interactions:
- Cannabis can affect how your body responds to anesthesia, often increasing the amount needed.
- Regular cannabis users may have higher tolerance, which could complicate sedation or pain management.
- Respiratory Risks:
- Smoking cannabis, especially close to surgery, can increase the risk of airway complications, bronchospasm, or poor oxygenation under anaesthesia.
- Cardiovascular Effects:
- Cannabis can raise heart rate and blood pressure, which may be risky during surgery, especially in people with existing cardiovascular conditions.
- Disclosure is Crucial:
- It’s important to tell your surgical team about cannabis use — frequency, method (smoking, edibles, vaping), and timing — for safe planning.
Always speak to your surgeon before surgery. Go through what drugs you are taking at home. These can be prescribed drugs for recreational drugs. It’s very important because some can affect the outcome of your surgery or cause interactions. At our clinic for cosmetic surgery we see our patients everyday for aftercare and a doctor will give you the pain relief you need for the first important days post operation.
