Collagen and Other Supplement After Breast Surgery?

Question

hi , i am an avid supplement user, when after sugery can i resume supp. like, e.g. whey, collagen, ginseng, ginger, green tea extract... i have been taking collagen powder for some yrs, will it increase the chance of capsule contracture (CC) ? a nurse told me that collagen supp. & vit. c increase the chance of CC, does that mean anything's good for building up skin will increase the chance of CC , what supp. should be avoided for CC occurance,and when after surgery can i resume my supp?

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Omega 3 fats (e.g. fish oil, EFA, flax seed oil, Krill oil), NSAID's (aspirin, ibuprofen, naprosyn), Vitamin E, "blood thinners" and a whole host of supplements and medicines can cause excessive bleeding and bruising and therefore increase your recovery time. When in doubt stay away from supplements unless they are designed for surgery. I offer to my patients specific supplements that speed healing, reduce swelling, bruising and in some cases minimize discomfort (for example Bromelain, Arnica Montanum, and Vitamins designed for surgery.Bottom Line: Certain vitamins and minerals can speed healing others can cause problems and slow the process down or cause complications. If healing is going well I usually let my patients go back to their usual regimen of supplementsCheck with your doctor as only your doctor would have access to your medical history and what would be best for you. We typically allow our patients to continue their supplements 10 days post op if their recovery is going well.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Despite your interest in the use of supplements, I do not think that there is any evidence that supplements or of “collagen” help or “hurt" after breast augmentation surgery.  On the other hand, I think that you could potentially waste a lot of time, energy,  and resources if you were to believe everything you read and/or hear. As far as resuming supplements and/or medications after surgery, patients should follow their plastic surgeon's recommendations;  ultimately he said/she knows exactly how you are progressing and is responsible for your care.

	 Best wishes.

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