Why Hemoglobin Matters Before Plastic Surgery

If you’re planning plastic surgery with Cervantes Body Contouring, you’ve probably heard us say it more than once:  your safety always comes first.

One of the most important — and often misunderstood — steps in your pre-op process is your blood work, specifically your hemoglobin levels. Patients often ask why it matters so much and why we require labs before traveling to Tijuana. Let’s break it down clearly and honestly.

What Is Hemoglobin?

Hemoglobin is a protein found in your red blood cells. Its job is simple but critical: transporting oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body.

Oxygen is essential for healing, recovery, and safe anesthesia. Without enough hemoglobin, your body struggles to do all three effectively.

Why Healthy Levels Matter Before Surgery

Procedures like liposuction, tummy tucks, BBL, or full body contouring place temporary stress on your body — which is completely normal when your body is prepared. Adequate hemoglobin:

• Reduces surgical complications
• Supports proper wound healing
• Improves recovery time
• Ensures safe oxygen delivery during anesthesia

When hemoglobin levels are low, these benefits disappear — and surgery becomes significantly riskier.

What Happens If Hemoglobin Is Too Low?

Low hemoglobin, also known as anemia, is more common than many patients realize, especially in women.

“A patient can feel fine and still not be medically ready for surgery. Labs tell us the truth about your body's readiness.”

Why We Require Labs Before You Travel

We require pre-op labs before you travel to Tijuana to avoid the worst-case scenario: arriving prepared, taking time off work, and arranging childcare — only to find out surgery must be postponed.

Reviewing your hemoglobin early allows us to address issues in advance (such as prescribing iron supplements) and protect your time, your investment, and most importantly, your health.

Are Pre-Op Labs Optional?

Short answer: No.

At Cervantes Body Contouring, we do not cut corners when it comes to safety — even if it means delaying surgery until your body is truly ready.

Preparation Is Part of Your Results

The best surgical outcomes don’t start in the operating room — they start with preparation. Healthy hemoglobin levels mean better healing, smoother recovery, and long-term results you can feel confident about.