Is oregano oil safe before surgery?

Using oregano oil before breast lift with implants is generally not recommended for the following reasons:
1. Blood Thinning: Oregano oil can act as a natural blood thinner, which may increase the risk of excessive bleeding during and after surgery. This is particularly concerning for any surgical procedure, including a breast lift with implants.
2. Potential Drug Interactions: Oregano oil may interact with medications used during surgery, including anesthesia and pain medications, potentially leading to complications.
3. Allergic Reactions and Sensitivities: There is a risk of allergic reactions or sensitivities to oregano oil, which can complicate both the surgery and the recovery process.
4. Immune System Effects: Oregano oil can have effects on the immune system that might interfere with healing and recovery post-surgery.
Given these potential risks, it’s crucial to inform your plastic surgeon and healthcare team about all supplements, herbs, and medications you are taking. They will provide specific guidance tailored to your situation. Typically, it is recommended to discontinue the use of any supplements, including oregano oil, at least two weeks before surgery to minimize risks, but always follow the guidance of your healthcare provider.

Cookmom,You should bring this to the attention of your surgeon, however taking any supplement for only 3 days is not likely to cause a problem.  Oil based supplements (vitamin E, Fish oil, Castor Oil, Cod liver oil, omega-3 fatty acids, primrose oil, flax seed oil, oregano oil, etc.) taken chronically can deplete the fat-soluble vitamin K that is in the diet, leading to depletion of protein clotting factors produced by the liver, which are dependent on vitamin K for proper synthesis.  An exception is the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS:  aspirin; ibuprofen; naproxen(Aleve)), which impair platelet clotting function, and must be entirely avoided for 7-10 days before any surgery where bleeding is a likely possibility.  Let your doctor know.  I hope that this helps.  Good luck with your procedure.     Best wishes,     Tom DeWire, MD, FACS     Richmond, VA