Is eating minced garlic the same as taking a garlic supplement pre op?

Question

My surgery is in 2 days. I'm reading info from the doctor and garlic is one of the herbal remedies to avoid. I eat minced garlic about 3 days a week in this recipe I like. Is that going to be an issue? I just ate it...

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

I would recommend letting your surgeon know and also avoid eating anymore prior to surgery.

The best way to assess and give
true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified
plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Garlic is thought to have an effect on bleeding with surgery, and both supplement and minced garlic would have the same effect. I would get in touch with your surgeon's office and have a discussion about its use and the safety of your surgery. Hope this helps.

Arko Demianczuk, MD · Answer

The dose in a supplement is higher than what you would use to cook with. It should not adversely affect your outcome or causee excessive bleeding as the blood thinning effect of garlic is dose dependent. Consider peri operative use of Arnica to minimize bruising.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Typically, the dose of garlic in food is much lower than in supplements. However, please let your doctor know what you did eat, and avoid any more prior to surgery.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Eating any form of garlic, whether it is minced/supplements not good for surgery as it thins out your blood.

Is eating minced garlic the same as taking a garlic supplement pre op?

Answers (5)

Answer: Garlic

Answer: Garlic

Answer: Eating garlic not good for surgery

Answer: Eating garlic not good for surgery

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Is eating minced garlic the same as taking a garlic supplement pre op?

Answers (5)

Answer: Garlic

Answer: Garlic

Answer: Eating garlic not good for surgery

Answer: Eating garlic not good for surgery

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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