I had upper and lower blepharoplasty about 10 years ago. I had a SMAS facelift 3 years ago. It's time to get my eyes done again. For me, the blepharoplasty surgery was really tough and the facelift was a walk in the park. When I had my eyes done 10 years ago, they itched during recovery. I had significant swelling and bruising. Is there anything I can do before hand to have an easier recovery? Of course I'll ask my doctor what he recommends but all recommendations are appreciated.
October 21, 2019
Answer: Do you recommend taking anything like arnica before upper and lower blepharoplasty? 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. We do have patients take Arnica and Bromelain in our practice. 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
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October 21, 2019
Answer: Do you recommend taking anything like arnica before upper and lower blepharoplasty? 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. We do have patients take Arnica and Bromelain in our practice. 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
Helpful
October 21, 2019
Answer: Arnica Pre and Postop Thanks for your question. Yes, it is very customary to start arnica tablets before surgery and extend them into the postop period. We usually start bromelain about 3 days prior to surgery and anica, the day of surgery and continue both for 10 days postop. Arnica gel or cream can also be applied to bruised areas to help resolve bruising. I find that Vitamin C and also Zinc can help with postop healing. Best!
Helpful
October 21, 2019
Answer: Arnica Pre and Postop Thanks for your question. Yes, it is very customary to start arnica tablets before surgery and extend them into the postop period. We usually start bromelain about 3 days prior to surgery and anica, the day of surgery and continue both for 10 days postop. Arnica gel or cream can also be applied to bruised areas to help resolve bruising. I find that Vitamin C and also Zinc can help with postop healing. Best!
Helpful