Do you recommend taking anything like arnica before upper and lower blepharoplasty?

Question

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.

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Hi @alm751. You can start taking arnica pills 2 days prior to surgery. Best of luck to you, Dr. Nima!

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

While the anecdotal evidence regarding the benefits of arnica is compelling, the clinical evidence is less convincing. However, the supplement is safe for most patients, so there is no real reason not to take it if you think it might help. It is also essential to avoid some medications that can exacerbate bruising, such as ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin. I encourage you to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During this meeting, you can discuss your surgical history including your concerns about bruising. Your surgeon can place you on a pre-surgery protocol to minimize these side effects in anticipation of your procedure.

Andrew Campbell, MD · Answer

I perform most of my blepharoplasties in the office setting using local anesthesia. We place cold gauze on the eyes as soon as we finish with that side and then change the gauze regularly for the rest of the procedure. We recommend that patients take arnica and consider arnica gel as well. They are to keep the eyelids cool for the rest of the first day and then sleep with the head elevated. An antihistamine can be taken for any itching. We usually remove the sutures in 3-4 days and let the patient wear makeup at that time. Bruising is usually mild and is gone within a week.Andrew Campbell, M.D.Facial Rejuvenation SpecialistQuintessa

Paul E. Goco, MD · Answer

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!

David Shifrin, MD · Answer

Arnica is helpful for swelling and bruising reduction after facial surgery.  I have not seen the same benefit for body procedures.

Do you recommend taking anything like arnica before upper and lower blepharoplasty?

Answers (10)

Answer: Arnica Pre and Postop

Answer: Arnica Pre and Postop

Answer: Arnica and facial surgery

Answer: Arnica and facial surgery

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Do you recommend taking anything like arnica before upper and lower blepharoplasty?

Answers (10)

Answer: Arnica Pre and Postop

Answer: Arnica Pre and Postop

Answer: Arnica and facial surgery

Answer: Arnica and facial surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.