Arnica and lipo: Should I start taking arnica now to help with bruising and swelling?

Yes, Arnica would help bruising. I recommend following up with your Doctor about their after care protocol. For liposuction after care, I recommend adding hyperbaric oxygen and lymphatic massage along with your compression to help decrease swelling. To improve your final results, I also recommend adding vanquish for further fat removal, exilis/venus legacy for skin tightening, cellutone/z wave to make the skin smooth, remove scar tissue, and improve the skin’s appearance. Best, Dr. Emer

Arnica most certainly helps minimize bruising after liposuction. Are usually prescribe it 1 to 2 days prior to surgery, however I would first check with your plastic surgeon. 

Thank you for your awesome question! Your concerns are important to discuss directly with your board certified plastic surgeon.  He or she will appreciate the open communication and will want to help you. I hope this is helpful and wish you all the very best.  Sincerely, Brian S. Coan, MD, FACS