Is Arnica Montana and Bromelain with quercetin effective?

Question

I'm scheduled for a BL with Augment and a modified mini TT with complete muscle repair and lipo to contour in May. My PS gave the go ahead to take arnica. I found an article that suggested the brand Vitamedica Arnica Montana tablets (3pills 3xday) and Bromelaine with Quercetin (3 days prior and 7 days post) Have you seen any reduction in bruising and swelling with these products?

Robert Singer, MD · Answer

Arnica Montana
is a homeopathic drug that is claimed to reduce bruising and swelling.
Anecdotally, many patients and plastic surgeons feel that Arnica does have a
benefit. There are, however, conflicting reports in the valid scientific
literature about these claims. Bromelin (Bromelain), another homeopathic
medication, is a mixture of enzymes found naturally in the juice and stems of
pineapples and also purported to reduce swelling, bruising, inflammation and
pain after surgery. This supplement, which is often taken along with Arnica, is
also controversial with regard to efficacy.

I would suggest that your plastic
surgeon be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member
of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)  that
you trust and are comfortable with. You should discuss your concerns with that
surgeon in person. It is critical that he or she should be aware of all
medications, supplements, minerals, vitamins, and herbs that you are taking,
because they may interfere with normal blood coagulation, healing, and
anesthesia.

Robert Singer, MD  FACS

La Jolla, California

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 the use of Arnica Montana 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 evidence to its effectiveness, I believe there is some benefit, and no harm. I recommend 4-5 tablets under the tongue 4x/day for 3-5 days prior and 5-7 days after the procedure. The other to also have some benefit. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Taking these concoctions is utter nonsense. They have positive no effect on bruising and in excess may have unwanted side effects.

John A. Millard, MD, FACS · Answer

In my experience, both seem to have some effect on bruising, mostly.  Where, I've seen the best results is when I've worked with naturopathic doctors who use compounding pharmacies.  There doesn't seem to be any real downside.  There is certainly a need to do some good scientific research on the subject.  I will tell you, based on my experience with thousands of patients, if i were having surgery myself, I would use both, I probably seek out one of my naturopathic doctor friends, using there compounding pharmacy.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

In my practice I have seen little to no difference in bruising and swelling by taking these supplements.  If you should take them be sure you clear it with your surgeon.  He will be monitoring your healing and will need to know exactly what you are taking.  Best to you!

Is Arnica Montana and Bromelain with quercetin effective?

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Is Arnica Montana and Bromelain with quercetin effective?

Answers (5)

Answer: Arnica Montana and Bromelain

Answer: Arnica Montana and Bromelain

Answer: Is Arnica Montana and Bromelain with quercetin effective?

Answer: Is Arnica Montana and Bromelain with quercetin effective?

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