How can I help avoid fluid retention and swelling?

Question

As a health coach one of my nutritional supplements helps with fluid retention . Would this help reduce the swelling post operative of face and neck lift

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

I recommend you ask your surgeon about the supplements you want to take. The ingredients have to be checked to make sure that they won't interfere with your recovery. Swelling can take up to a year to subside. During this time, you should restrict sodium intake and sleep on your back as much as possible. Lymphatic massage can also help.

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

One can control this more that you would expect.Paleo diet for 3 wks before and 2 afterLow sodium diet same durationIV steroids at start of surgery and Medrol dosepak starting day of surgeryHOB at 45 degrees for 72 hrs following surgeryPrevent nausea and thus retching using amend, zofran, clear diet for first day or twoDeep extubation, euvolemic iv fluid use Also, having surgery with  surgeon who uses careful and precise technique also helps.check out recs on my site austinfaceandnose.combtw - you are not a direct pt of mine so these are things you should discuss with your doctor, this is not advice from me to you - just a list of the things i do.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The only way to assist the body in decreasing postoperative swelling is to avoid high sodium intake which increases total body water. Nutritional supplements have no benefit. Occasionally a diuretic will be used by the plastic surgeon of postoperative swelling is excessive.

Trang Vo-Nguyen, MD · Answer

Although some supplements are safe, many are not FDA approved and often contain ingredients that should be avoided before and after surgery.  Many supplements can increase bruising and bleeding, increase heart rates and blood pressure, increase blood clotting, etc.  Also, some amount of swelling is necessary for proper healing to occur. I would recommend consulting with your surgeon prior to considering any supplement before, during or after surgery.

Roy A. David, MD · Answer

Swelling after facelift is normal, but cold compresses, rest, and medication may help. Consult with your surgeon for more info. Good Luck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Facial swelling can be a nuisance after facial surgery but with time it usually gets better. Give it a full year or so.  Good luck.

George Commons, MD (retired) · Answer

Swelling is a natural event in wound healing.  It is caused by lymphatics being disrupted and cannot be rushed.  Lymphatics may take a year to totally unite and function normal.   In the meanwhile there are things one can do to reduce swelling.  Sleep with head elevated.   Avoid Sodium  (salt) as much as possible.  Keep your sodium intake to less than 1500mg a day and you will have some better control of swelling.   But remember swelling is a normal part of wound healing.   My Best,  Dr C

How can I help avoid fluid retention and swelling?

Answers (7)

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