Bromelain and Amica long term to combat "swell hell"?

asked 1 year ago by cjl in Texarkana, TX
Latest answer by Michael L. Spann, MD
Question viewed 372 times
Tags: arnica, bromelain, swelling

Any of you vets out there...did you continue taking Bromelain and Amica throughout the 3-6 month period to combat "swell hell"? My thinking is that it should help then if it helps in the beginning. But, is it safe to take fairly long term? Any comments appreciated. I am having a TT May 26 and I so want to prevent swell hell if possible.

6 answers to Bromelain and Amica long term to combat "swell hell"?

Bromelain and Arnica are more for bruising than swelling.

My partner and I actually give our patients Anica, as we have become believers in its effectiveness (reluctant ones for those who trust in the scientific method, but believers nonetheless). After a week or so, there will be no reason to continue either of these homeopathic remedies, as cut lymphatics still need to heal and re-open, and scar tissue still needs to soften and mature. It's like taking vitamin supplements--unless your diet is so limited that you are truly... more

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS
Minneapolis Plastic Surgeon

www.mpsmn.com

Arnica for a tummy tuck

These medications are largely anecdotal to decrease bruising. I find it most beneficial to use about a week pre-op and then about 2 weeks post. I almost exclusively use in facial procedures. Your tummy should be okay with swelling assuming your drains are working, you avoid a high salt diet, and you follow the activity limitations. I wish you the best on your tuck.

Michael L. Spann, MD
Little Rock Plastic Surgeon

Bromelain and arnica for swell "hell"?

Simply put there is little evidence as to the efficacy of these preparations. people who take them often feel there was some improvement but that is not "proof" per se. in my practice I use gentle technique with rest post op to minimize facial swelling and conversely early gentle ambulation/activity to stimulate lymphatic flow for body work. the preparations are not standardized and may actually have unanticipated effects. when in doubt keep it simple.

Rafael C. Cabrera, MD
Boca Raton Plastic Surgeon

Avoid salt to reduce swelling

Hi, Thanks for letting me know about swell hell, never heard that expression before. Swelling is part of the natural healing process and without it you would not heal properly. Natural remedies like arnica and bromelain may help but there is no scientific evidence as of yet to support that claim. That being said, should not hurt you either. The best thing is to avoid salt in my opinion and drink lots of fluids. Most of my patients who have tummy-tuck and are... more

Tracy Pfeifer, MD
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon