Posted by Laurence Weider on August 27, 2013
The use of herbal supplements is common among individuals seeking cosmetic surgery, particularly facial procedures. However, a study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the official journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), highlights the potential risks associated with these supplements when taken before or shortly after surgery.
The Prevalence of Herbal Supplement Use Among Cosmetic Surgery Patients
Many patients fail to recognize herbal supplements as medications and, as a result, may not disclose their use during medical consultations. Despite their natural origin, these supplements can have potent effects on the body and interfere with surgical outcomes. According to the study, nearly 50% of patients undergoing consultations for cosmetic procedures reported taking at least one herbal supplement. Alarmingly, over 17% of these patients were using supplements linked to an increased risk of surgical complications, such as excessive bleeding.
Supplements Associated with Increased Bleeding Risk
Certain vitamins and herbal supplements are known to increase bleeding risk, which can complicate surgical procedures and recovery. These include:
- Bilberry
- Bromelain
- Fish Oil
- Flaxseed Oil
- Garlic
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
- Selenium
- Vitamin E
Other commonly used supplements, while not directly linked to bleeding, can pose additional risks. Examples include echinacea, ephedra (ma huang), ginkgo, ginseng, kava, St. John’s wort, valerian, feverfew, and ginger.
Importance of Preoperative Disclosure
Awareness of the risks associated with herbal supplements is essential for both patients and healthcare providers. By openly discussing supplement use, patients can help their medical teams plan for safer surgical procedures and recovery periods. For more information about the impact of supplements on surgical outcomes, consult your healthcare provider or refer to authoritative sources like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
This information underscores the need for thorough communication and careful planning before cosmetic procedures, ensuring that natural supplements do not undermine the success and safety of surgery.
Recommendations for Patients Considering Surgery
In clinical practice, it is advised that patients discontinue the use of nutritional supplements at least two weeks before undergoing cosmetic surgery. During initial consultations, patients are encouraged to provide a detailed list of all vitamins and supplements they are taking. This
Dr. Weider, a native of Southern California, is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who has maintained a private practice in Dallas, TX since 1999. After attending Stanford University, he obtained his medical degree (M.D.) from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He then completed a one year surgical internship in Los Angeles at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, followed by a four year general surgery residency in Dallas at Methodist Medical Center, and a two year plastic surgery fellowship in Cleveland at Case Western Reserve University.
