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

Question

I am getting my current implants removed new ones put in and I am getting a full anchor lift. Do you suggest taking supplements to promote healing? If so what type. I have read Zinc and Vitamin C and Bromelain are good choices. I know E is not good and causes bleeding. Also in regard to Alchol I was told a week before but I have a party this Saturday and wondering if bad if I had a drink or two.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

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.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

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.

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

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!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

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.

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

Answers (10)

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Answer: Supplements for surgery

Answer: Diet and Alcohol Prior to Breast Augmentation/Lifting Surgery?

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