Does Arnica Gel after Rhinoplasty help the swelling?

Arnica may help but I recommend you ask your surgeon if gel is suitable for you. Generally, taking arnica orally tends to be more effective than when topically applied.

Hello! Thank you for your question! The recommendations for the use of these homeopathic medications are surgeon preference. I typically suggest use Arnica to decrease swelling and bruising. It is an herbal medication that is propagated from the seeds of an herb. I, as well as my patients, have seen some benefit with the treatment in the postoperative period. Although there is little evidence to its effectiveness, I believe there is some benefit, but no harm. I recommend 4-5 tablets under the tongue 4x/day for 3-5 days prior and 5-7 days after the procedure. I would ask your surgeon if the gel form may be used on the area at this time. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

We routinely have our patients take arnica orally after rhinoplasty surgery. Though the scientific data on its use is equivocal, our patients bruise very little afterwards. Some have used the gel and feel it is helpful--the side effects appear to be minimal. I don't think Arnica has much impact on swelling.