Question:
can you give blood to The Red Cross after you have gastric bypass?

   — [Anonymous] (posted on October 30, 2001)

October 30, 2001
You sure can! The red cross guidelines for people who have had surgery state the following, "Accept those who have had surgery recently as long as the wound is healed, stitches are dissolved or removed and the underlying condition is acceptable in a blood donor. Wait 48 hours after having stitches or staples for lacerations." They will also test your iron prior to donation, and if it is at a good level, you are clear to donate, For more information check out their eligibility guide at: http://www.redcross.org/services/biomed/blood/learn/eligibl.html
   — Deborah W.

October 30, 2001
My physician (Luis Gorospe, Tulsa) discourages giving of blood due to the problems of restoring blood volume. He says that staying hydrated is always an issue post-op and that since we can't be rejuvenated with juice and cookies the way most people can, he discourages.
   — mskarns

October 30, 2001
Due to recent events, the same concern entered my mind. I called the hospital and my surgeon and I was told that one year post op is acceptable for donations. I agree with the alst poster though. If you have borderline levels and dehydrayte often, I probably wouldn't chance it. In my case, all my levels aree great so I was ready to pull up my sleeve. (Unfortunately there was no need)
   — Jeannet

October 30, 2001
My surgeon advised me to wait one year before donating blood.
   — blank first name B.

October 30, 2001
My surgeon said yes after 6 months- I waited a year to be safe. I always had border line iron levels for giving blood pre op, but post op (after 1 year) my iron count was higher than it ever was preop- go figure! So I give every 10 weeks.
   — M B.