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Arnica Montana Not Good for First Time Rhinoplasty?

I had rhinoplasty two days ago. When I asked about Arnica Montana, here was my nurse's response: "Please stop arnica, we did a study on patients who were having their nose done for the first time and the end result was those that took Arnica pills had more bleeding, bruising and swelling. The product it should not be ingested and is meant to be used in a cream base form." I understand that I am to follow what my doctor says, but this seems to be a huge discrepancy. Please help.

Doctor Answers 5

Arnica Use In Rhinoplasty

August 21st, 2012
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There is no evidence that taking Arnica causes worse bruising after a primary rhinoplasty. Whether it will reduce the bruising is a matter of debate, but its low cost and lack of any side effects makes its use common. If you have visible bruising from osteotomies, you can use both the tablets and the cream. There is no harm in doing both.

Web reference: http://www.eppleyrhinoplasty.com

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD


Indianapolis Plastic Surgeon
4.6 out of 5 stars 66 reviews

Arnica helps with bruising after any facial surgery.

August 5th, 2013
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There has been study in this area and arnica montana has been shown to reduce bruising after facial surgery. I know no evidence to the contrary, including any suggestion that taking such supplements causes an increase in bleeding during or after primary rhinoplasty. You should ask the nurse if they are proposing to publish their findings.  

Web reference: http://www.thieme.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=1371&Itemid=53

Randolph Capone, MD, FACS

Randolph Capone, MD, FACS
Baltimore Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 44 reviews

Arnica and rhinoplasty?

March 1st, 2016
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Hello! Thank you for your question! The recommendations for the use of these homeopathic medications are surgeon preference. I typically suggest use Arnica to decrease swelling and bruising. It is an herbal medication that is propagated from the seeds of an herb. I, as well as my patients, have seen some benefit with the treatment in the postoperative period. Although there is little vidence to its effectiveness, I believe there robe some benefit, but no harm. I recommend 4-5 tablets under the tongue 4x/day for 3-5 days prior and 5-7 days after the procedure.  Certainly, follow your surgeon's advice. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!
Lewis Albert Andres, MD

Lewis Albert Andres, MD
Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 22 reviews

Arnica Montana for rhinoplasty

August 21st, 2012
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We have found some do benefit from the use of Arnica to reduce bruising after rhinoplasty, however the supplement is not studied and of a 'proven' benefit. We often reccommend Arnica, and some will follow. Bottom line is that you will do well with or without the supplement. By the way, we suggest the tablets, as the cream will not penetrate the skin well.

Web reference: http://www.peterejohnsonmd.com/rhinoplasty

Peter E. Johnson, MD

Peter E. Johnson, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon
4.1 out of 5 stars 39 reviews

Arnica Montana in Rhinoplasty Patients

August 21st, 2012
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I would disagree with this nurse's statement regarding the role of Arnica in the rhinoplasty healing process. I have been using Arnica in the peri-operative period for years and have noted a marked reduction overall in terms of postoperative swelling and bruising. I think a good majority of my colleagues would have the same sentiments. At the end of the day, though, you should follow the instructions of your chosen rhinoplasty surgeon. Happy healing. 

Web reference: http://www.drhilinski.com/rhinoplasty-tutorial/

John M. Hilinski, MD

John M. Hilinski, MD
San Diego Facial Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 32 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.