Can Topical Magnesium Aid in Reducing Swelling After Surgery?

Question

Things are moving along but by end of day I'm so swollen. I can't seem to reduce the swelling significantly. I remember my mother always found an epsom salt bath useful when she had swollen feet or bad arthritis pain. Can this, with massage, make any difference? Natural products seem safe, and I see products with magnesium and arnica out there. Do they work?

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

There is no evidence to suggest that topical magnesium works to reduce swelling.  Arnica Montana can help but only for the first week or two following surgery.  Bromelain can also help.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Swelling is not uncommon after a tummy tuck and typically lasts quite a while. 80% has resolved by 3 months and the rest takes up to a year to resolve. You have to be patient with the healing process.Enjoy your new look!Sheila Nazarian

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I'm not sure where you got this bit of information but application of magnesium to swollen area will have no effect on swelling.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Although your concerns are understandable, your best friends at this point will be patience and time. Other maneuvers for improved incision line healing, such as massage, tape, application of silicone-based products etc. may all be helpful;  best to discuss with your plastic surgeon what his/her recommendations are.

	Best wishes; hopefully you will be pleased with the long-term outcome of the procedure performed.

Stephen Salerno, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Hello

	There is no clinical evidence that topical magnesium will aid with wound healing or reducing swelling.  I do not think there is any harm in applying it or having an Epsom salts bath.

	Regards

	Stephen Salerno

Can Topical Magnesium Aid in Reducing Swelling After Surgery?

Answers (5)