Arnica Montana Not Good for First Time Rhinoplasty?

Question

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.

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

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!

John M. Hilinski, MD · Answer

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.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

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.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

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.

Randolph Capone, MD, FACS (in memoriam) · Answer

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.

Arnica Montana Not Good for First Time Rhinoplasty?

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Answer: Arnica Montana for rhinoplasty

Answer: Arnica Montana for rhinoplasty

Answer: Arnica helps with bruising after any facial surgery.

Answer: Arnica helps with bruising after any facial surgery.

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Arnica Montana Not Good for First Time Rhinoplasty?

Answers (5)

Answer: Arnica Montana for rhinoplasty

Answer: Arnica Montana for rhinoplasty

Answer: Arnica helps with bruising after any facial surgery.

Answer: Arnica helps with bruising after any facial surgery.

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.