Dietary supplements vitamins C, D and iron before surgery?

Question

I'll be getting a tummy tuck in exactly 16 days. Wanted to know if I should start a regimen of taking dietary supplement vitamins C, D and iron. My surgeon has advised me not to take any vitamins (No reason given). I was also told of homeopathic remedies I can take as well to reduce signs of bruising and swelling just wanted to know if I should anyway for the added benefits?

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

I think that you need to comply with your surgeon's instructions, not do anything on your own, and would advise against all supplements.  Supplements can have an effect on the anesthesia which would not be in your best interest and some can precipitate bleeding.  I always marvel why patients think that they have to do something or that it will assuredly be in their best interests.  Listen to your plastic surgeon.

Luis A. Fernandez Goico, MD · Answer

Hello, Thanks for your question. The truth here is that if you decided to have surgery with a specific surgeon, then your trust must be completely on that person. If he/she said not to take them, then don't, otherwise you'll be worried in the future about "complications" that might happen because of not following his orders. The reason I personally do tell my patients to take vitamins, is because many women have anemia, and it helps to rise their haemoglobin. Other than that, if you're cbc is within normal ranges, then you shouldn't worry about not taking them; you're blood is speaking on your behalf and saying you do have a complete healthy diet. When they're not on an optimal level, I usually send: 1gr of Vit C once per day, 300mg of Iron twice per day and Folic Acid once per day.Hope this actually helps you with this dilemma. Take good care of yourself, Dr. Fernandez Goico

Mel T. Ortega, MD · Answer

Ivala, Thank you for your question.For the your safety you should follow your surgeons instructions and if he/she didn't gave you a reason why you could always have a second consult for more information.I tell my patients to stop all vitamins 2 weeks before, there are medication know of making you bleed more during surgery.

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

i personally think your surgeon is being very cautious. i doubt very much that normal doses of Vit c and D and iron will have any negative effects on your surgery.on the other hand if you have not been taking them, why do you want to start them now?if you eat normally and are healthy, it is very unlucky that you are in need of Iron.Vit C and D, i personally think are valuable to be taken, especially with the colder weather and less sun exposure (or if you wear a sunscreen which blocks Vit D)you should, in general, follow your surgeons advice since his opinions may differ than mine.sincerelydavid berman md

Leonard Hochstein, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

There are several supplements that I feel is important to start prior to surgery.  However, there is also a lot of medications that need to be avoided at least 2 weeks prior and 2 weeks after surgery.  I would consult with your surgeon what his personal recommendations are for you. For my patients I have them start:Arnika Forte - The only combination of arnica Montana, bromelain and grape seed extract shown to speed the healing time allowing for a faster recovery from bruising, swelling and pain associated with soft tissue injuries. Start taking 2 capsules with 4oz. of water day after surgery for best results. Bromelain - is an anti-inflammatory formula containing the proteolytic enzyme from the stems of pineapples. It is most often used after sports injuries, to relive edema and after surgical procedures to help with swelling. 800-1000mg Recommended: 2 capsules per day for 3 days before & 7 days after.Arnica Montana - has been used in Europe for centuries to treat swelling, soreness and bruising. Arnica may significantly decrease healing time or the appearance of such (bruising, swelling, etc.).Vitamin C - is essential for normal healing. It is recommended to take at least 1 gram per day a week prior to surgery and continuing for several weeks after surgery.Vitamin A - is essential to wound healing and the immune system. It is recommended to take a dosage of 10,000 IU per day (women that are pregnant should not take Vitamin A).Acidophilus - If you find yourself feeling tired after surgery you may want to get an ACIDOPHILUS supplement to prevent yeast infections and fatigue.Protein - Also up your protein intake and watch your sodium.Drink plenty of water after surgeryIron supplements - Take 2 /tablets once a day. Start taking this supplement at least 2 weeks prior to surgery to be as healthy as you can be for a faster recovery.Stop taking two weeks before surgery - Vitamin E supplements over 500mg, Garlic, EPA, Hawthorn berry and selenium supplements prior to surgery. These supplements decrease the ability to clot normally.Homeopathic medicines are not FDA approved, and they aren’t because supplements and vitamins and such aren’t. Only the dyes and preservatives are regulated by the FDA. Just use your best judgment and ask around to see what other patients found worked for them, perhaps Arnika Forte, SinEcch, Bromelain and other remedies may help you as well.

Dietary supplements vitamins C, D and iron before surgery?

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