Are you considering body contouring procedures, such as a BBL, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, or liposuction? Renowned Miami plastic surgeon, Dr. William, understands the importance of meticulous pre-operative preparation for optimal results. This includes being mindful of supplements that may interfere with your surgery and recovery.
While some supplements offer health benefits, certain ones can pose risks during surgery, specifically by increasing bleeding potential.
Let’s explore 10 supplements to avoid before your plastic surgery:
Echinacea: Boosting Immunity with Caution
Echinacea is a popular herbal supplement used to strengthen the immune system. However, it can interact with anesthesia medications and potentially cause allergic reactions. It’s recommended to stop taking echinacea 4 weeks before undergoing any surgical procedure.
Garlic: Heart-Healthy but Bleeding Risks
Garlic is often taken for its cardiovascular benefits, but it can also increase the risk of bleeding during surgery. To minimize this risk, it’s advisable to stop taking garlic at least 30 days before your scheduled surgery.
Ginger: Nausea Relief with Bleeding Concerns
People often use ginger to help with nausea, but it can also slow down blood clotting and bleeding. This is not good before surgery because you need your body to stop bleeding quickly. Discontinuing ginger consumption at least 30 days prior to your surgery is important.
Ginkgo Biloba: Memory Boost with Bleeding Risks
Ginkgo biloba is known for its potential to enhance memory and cognitive function. Unfortunately, it also falls into the category of supplements that can increase bleeding. Stop taking ginkgo biloba 30 days before your surgery to prevent blood loss from surgery.
Ginseng: Energy Boost and Bleeding Risks
Ginseng is often used to increase energy levels, but it too can prolong bleeding time. To ensure a safe surgical experience, discontinue ginseng at least 30 days prior to your procedure.
To lower the chance of bleeding after surgery, stop taking supplements. Also, avoid aspirin and similar medications. Do this for two weeks before the procedure.
Kava: Relaxation with Bleeding Concerns
Kava is a popular herbal supplement used for its relaxation properties. However, it can also increase bleeding risk, so doctors recommend stopping kava intake 30 days before surgery.
St. John’s Wort: Depression Relief with Bleeding Risks
St. John’s Wort is a commonly used treatment for depression, but it can also interfere with bleeding during surgery. Stop taking St. John’s Wort 30 days before your procedure. This will help prevent the formation of a hematoma. A hematoma is a blood clot that occurs when the body is unable to stop bleeding.
Turmeric: Anti-Inflammatory with Bleeding Risks
Turmeric helps reduce inflammation after surgery, but it can also increase bleeding time, similar to other supplements. Discontinue turmeric consumption at least 30 days before your surgery.
Valerian: Sleep Aid with Bleeding Concerns
Valerian is a popular natural sleep aid, but it too can prolong the time it takes for your blood to stop bleeding. Stop taking valerian at least 30 days before your scheduled surgery.
Vitamin E: Antioxidant with Bleeding Risks
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant, but it can also significantly increase bleeding time. We recommend discontinuing vitamin E at least 30 days before your surgery.
All these supplements have the potential to increase bleeding risk during surgery. Stop taking these supplements 30 days before your surgery for a safe and successful experience. This helps reduce bleeding risks during and after surgery, leading to a smoother recovery process.
Remember, recovery starts in pre-op and to learn more about the best pre-operative practices for successful plastic surgery procedures, schedule a consultation with Dr. William at Careaga Plastic Surgery today!
