Supplement Recommendations Prior to Surgery? And Is It Okay To Consume A Couple Alcohol Drinks A Few Days Before My Surgery?

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.

Good day! Surgeons have different protocols for pre and post op for each patient and for each procedure. It is still best to ask your doctor about detailed information on medications or supplements you need, if any, and strictly follow pre op instructions for best results. Best of luck! #RealSelf100

I think this an excellent question and surgeon's opinions greatly vary.  I agree that Vitamin C and Zinc are safe and Vitamin E should be avoided.  In terms of alcohol, a drink or two a couple of days before surgery is not a big deal, but please heed your surgeon's advice.

Vitamin C 1000 mg/day and Zinc 220 mg/day are excellent supplements prior to surgery, in addition to adequate protein intake.  Avoiding Vit E is also important.  Other supplements may not have other than placebo effects.  One or 2 drinks 2 days before surgery should be fine, but don't get a hangover!

There are noted benefits to taking Vitamin C and Zinc to promote healing.  I actually supply my patients with a homeopathic medication called Sinnech prior to their procedure to aid in the reduction of swelling and bruising.  As mentioned by the other surgeons on this board, you should consult with your plastic surgeon prior to surgery. I have my patients also avoid any alcohol for two weeks prior to their surgery to lessen their bleeding risk. Good luck on your procedure!

Since your surgeon has responsibility for your care, he/she should be the one that you are asking regarding the taking of supplements and consumption of alcohol prior to surgery. As noted by other respondents, vitamin C and zinc can help in the healing process. Alcohol may affect the risk for bleeding so again, discuss this with your surgeon.

Over the counter multi-vitamins should be fine before surgery.  In terms of alcohol intake, 1 or 2 drinks with a meal should be fine.  However, don't over do it.  There are published studies out there that alcohol intake can increase the risk of postoperative infection slightly.  Best of luck.

I usually have patients avoid herbals and major supplements before surgery.  Usually just a multivitamin is fine.  A drink or two is probably ok, just check with your surgeon.

We carry the vitamedica line of pre-surgical vitamins that are specifically  designed for pre and post operative use. They are tailored to promote healing and recovery and avoids anything which may cause increased bleeding, a few drinks never hurt, but do not overindulge before surgery !

Thank you for the question.

Always best to check with your plastic surgeon about specific instructions prior to surgery. However, personally I do not think it is necessary to take any specific supplements prior to surgery (assuming you  are in good health and consume a healthy diet).  Also, assuming  alcohol consumption is done in moderation ("a drink or two"),  you should be fine.  Do not expose yourself to nicotine (first or second hand) prior to surgery.

Again, best to confirm with your plastic surgeon.

Best wishes.