Arnica Montana is it good to use before surgery?

Question

Getting tummy tuck, Brazilian butt lift, breast implants and a lipo on June 2,2017. Is it. Good idea to use Arnica Montana before and after the surgery.. does it really work?

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.

Seth Jones, MD · Answer

Arnica is one of the few herbal medications that gets frequent endorsements by Plastic surgeons,  I recommend it for all my facial procedures including injections.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

This is something you should discuss with your surgeon. For my patients, I have them take VitaMedica Surgery Program both before and after surgery which includes arnica montana and we have had good results. Good luck!

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Yes! Arnica helps to reduce swelling and bruising after surgery. Contact your surgeon for his instructions. Best wishes

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

No I don't recommend Arnica before surgery only after the procedure. You should ask your plastic surgeon about this medication. Best wishes, Dr. Aldo

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question! As is the case with most homeopathic supplements, the benefits of Arnica Montana are mostly supported by anecdotal evidence, not scientific literature. Many patients and physicians do attest that this medication helps reduce bruising. If you choose to use it, I'd recommend doing so after the procedure. In any event, you should consult with your plastic surgeon regarding the use of this supplement. 
An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to assess your needs and obtain expert medical advice. Best of luck!

Ben Brown, MD (license emergency restriction) · Answer

Conflicting opinions exist with the use of Arnica Montana pre and post operatively. Each doctor may have different recommendations on how to use it. Discussing with your doctor will give you a better idea of what they recommend to you depending on your medical history.

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 you find a plastic surgeon 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

David A. Lickstein, MD · Answer

Most think arnica can help reduce bruising but the timing varies from doctor to doctor.  Some think it can increase the risk of bleeding if used before surgery - so best to check with your surgeon.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Arnica is a commonly used supplement around the time of surgery, but it is not preferred by all surgeons.  The best advice is to check with your surgeon to get his/her opinion.  This is true for all medications and supplements you take around the time of surgery.  Good luck!

Arnica Montana is it good to use before surgery?

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