Many surgeons also offer nutritional therapy or a supplement program for their patients before and after their procedure. Supplements may be necessary up to four weeks before surgery so that the body is well-prepared for the healing process.
Plastic Surgery Practice explains that water-soluble vitamins, fat-soluble vitamins and several nutrients such as alpha-lipoic acid and coenzyme play an important role in the nutritional health and the outcomes of the surgery. (
PlasticSurgeryPractice.com)
Types of Nutritional Supplement Programs
Every surgeon has the opportunity to select their preferred brand of supplements, and some of today’s leading brands include VitaMedica and SinEcch; the companies behind these supplements provide a range of programs for healing, tissue recovery, collagen production and strengthening the immune system.
Vitamedica has a healing supplement program that contains significant amounts of Bromelain, Quercetin and Arnica Monica 30X to reduce swelling and inflammation. It is a popular brand used before and after liposuction, breast augmentation and even some non-surgical procedures such as chemical peels and dermal fillers.
SinEcch is a natural, homeopathic brand that provides products that help with post-operative bruising and swelling. The products are used by many cosmetic and plastic surgery patients who want to heal using an all-natural approach.
Some of the key supplements needed for healing include:
- Arnica Montana – reduces inflammation and swelling; can also help with healing scars
- Vitamin C – an antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and helps speed up the healing process
- Bromezyme – a natural enzyme that can decrease swelling and reduce inflammation
- Nux Vomica – helps the body detoxify any anesthesia and other drugs from the system
- Grape Seed Extract – promotes the healing of the skin’s tissues and reduces recovery time
Benefits of Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional supplementation, combined with natural healing treatments such as massage therapy, offer several health benefits such as:
- Stimulating tissue growth
- Increasing collagen production
- Reducing the risk of inflammation
- Reducing bruising and swelling
- Increasing immune function
Drawbacks of Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements may also help with the recovery process, but some can have a negative effect on the healing process. For example, Ginkgo biloba can affect blood platelet formation which makes it difficult for the body to heal during surgery. Garlic may also slow down healing, and St. John’s Wort can interfere with the absorption and metabolism of other supplements. One of the most significant negative effects is from Vitamin E; excess Vitamin E can impair wound healing and slow down the overall healing process.
While many supplements can be purchased at health food stores and online, the precise dosage needed for recovery can vary by individual. Following the nutritional supplement program prescribed by the surgeon is essential for optimum recovery. Excessive bleeding and a weakened immune system can contribute to several adverse effects involved with surgery, and maintaining good health is essential for a successful outcome.
Published: 01/30/2009, Last Updated: 01/30/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.