My Doctor is NOT Recommending Pre-op/Post Op Vitamin Supplement, Why?

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.

    I would communicate with your plastic surgeon about all of these things, because he or she needs to know about a lot of these things may jeopardize your health and/or your results.

The general rule is that vitamins are only necessary or helpful if you are deficient. Because some vitamins actually have the potential for adverse side-effects such as increased risk of bleeding, you should follow your surgeon's advice. Good nutrition starts with eating healthy, favoring vegetables and protein. Congrats on your healthy lifestyle changes and best wishes for a successful outcome with your surgery.