Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy effective?

Question

I have been offered hyperbaric oxygen therapy after a face lift for an additional fee. Is this therapy proven to shorten healing time? How many physicians offer it?

Boris M. Ackerman, MD · Answer

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy after a facelift is not very helpful in routine 
cases. It is possible that healing could be slightly accelerated, but it would 
not have any real practical value. In my practice we utilize this modality in a 
few selected patients, such as smokers and diabetics.  On the other hand, 
hyperbaric treatment does accelerate healing after laser resurfacing, especially 
in patients with somewhat delayed healing.

Ritu Chopra, MD · Answer

I am a big proponent of HBO therapy in certain situations. I suggest it to my patients and let them decide. In my opinion it does help healing as well as to decrease bruising. I hope this helps

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

There's no reason to undergo hyperbaric treatment after a properly executed facelift. It makes absolutely no sense and could possibly be harmful.

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Shensman,Thanks for your question.  As I am a plastic surgeon in Denver, I know who has offered you this therapy.  For the average patient, there is no good indication for this type of therapy.  However, if you happen to be a smoker or have some types of medical conditions that may slow down your normal wound healing, hyperbaric therapy might decrease your risk of wound healing problems.  For normal, healthy, nonsmoking patients I typically recommend good preop and postop nutrition to maximize wound healing and recovery.  If you have money to burn then it won't hurt you to try it, as long as you have no contraindications to the treatment.  I would just save your money and use it to go on a vacation to show off your lovely new face!Good luck,Dr. Shah

Allen Gabriel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  There are indications for use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for management of complex wounds, and an elective Facelift is not on the list of indications. Hope this helps.  Best of luck.

David J. Goodkind, MD · Answer

The only reason to subject anyone to hyperbaric oxygen after a surgical procedure is if they are having problems healing the wounds created. Even then the indications are marginal

John R. Burroughs, MD · Answer

I have seen it be tremendously helpful for poorly healing wounds in diabetics, but for healthy patients with routine surgery I don't know how much more helpful it would be.  Anything to speed healing is great, but if the cost is substantial then it may not improve enough to warrant the extra fee.  Best Regards.

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy effective?

Answers (7)

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