Supplements to Prepare for Plastic Surgery

Nutritional Supplements before Plastic Surgery

When you’re considering plastic surgery, it’s natural to focus on the procedure itself and the results you hope to achieve. But what many people overlook is the preparation phase that can impact your surgery’s success and your recovery. One important aspect of this preparation is nutrition, and more specifically, the role of nutritional supplements.

As you begin your plastic surgery journey, it’s essential to understand that your body will need all the support it can get to heal efficiently and achieve optimal results. This is where carefully chosen nutritional supplements can play a vital role.

Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna will explain how the right supplements can help prepare your body for surgery, potentially improving your recovery time and outcome. She will guide you through the most beneficial supplements, when to take them, and which ones to avoid.

Take our Plastic Surgery Quiz to find out if you’d be a good candidate for cosmetic surgery.

Why Nutritional Supplements Matter for Surgery

You might wonder why supplements are necessary if you’re already eating a balanced diet. The truth is, even with the best intentions, our modern diets often fall short of providing all the nutrients our bodies need, especially when facing the stress of surgery.

When you undergo plastic surgery, your body experiences a form of controlled trauma. To heal from this, it requires an abundance of specific nutrients. These nutrients play important roles in different aspects of healing, including:

• Collagen production for wound healing
• Immune system support to prevent infections
• Reduction of inflammation
• Cell regeneration and tissue repair

A healthy diet forms the foundation of good nutrition, but supplements can help bridge any nutritional gaps. They provide concentrated doses of essential vitamins, minerals, and other compounds that can be particularly beneficial in the lead-up to surgery.

Proper supplementation before surgery can offer benefits such as:

• Enhanced wound healing: Certain nutrients can speed up the healing process, potentially reducing your recovery time.
• Reduced inflammation: Some supplements have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help manage post-operative swelling and discomfort.
• Improved immune function: A strong immune system is essential for preventing complications and promoting overall healing.
• Better stress management: Surgery can be stressful for both body and mind. Some supplements can help your body cope with this stress more effectively.

By thoughtfully supplementing your diet in preparation for surgery, you’re giving your body the best possible chance for a smooth procedure and recovery.

You should also know that not all supplements are created equal, and some may even be counterproductive before surgery. That’s why it’s essential to work closely with your plastic surgeon to develop a plan tailored to your specific needs and procedure.

Supplements to Consider before Plastic Surgery

As you prepare for your plastic surgery, consider incorporating these supplements into your pre-operative routine. Make sure to always consult with your plastic surgeon before starting any new supplement regimen.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has a role in collagen production – a protein essential for wound healing. It’s also a powerful antioxidant that can help protect your cells from damage during the stress of surgery.

For plastic surgery patients, Vitamin C’s collagen-boosting properties are particularly beneficial. Collagen is vital for skin elasticity and the strength of blood vessels, both of which are important factors in your recovery and final results.

You can find Vitamin C in citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens, but a supplement can ensure you’re getting an optimal amount before surgery.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function. It also plays a role in reducing inflammation, which can be beneficial during your recovery period.

Many people, especially in less sunny climates, are deficient in Vitamin D. Supplementation can help ensure your levels are optimal before surgery, potentially aiding in faster healing and reducing the risk of complications.

Zinc

Zinc is a mineral that can help with wound healing and immune function. It’s involved in the production of new cells and collagen, making it particularly important for surgical patients.

Studies have shown that zinc supplementation can speed up wound healing and strengthen the repair process. This could potentially lead to faster recovery and better scarring outcomes – crucial factors in plastic surgery.

Good dietary sources of zinc include oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds, but a supplement can provide a reliable dose in preparation for surgery.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

These essential fats, found in fish oil and some plant sources, are known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing inflammation, omega-3s can help manage post-operative swelling and potentially speed up your recovery.

Omega-3s also support cardiovascular health and can help maintain the fluidity of your cell membranes. While you can get omega-3s from eating fatty fish like salmon, a high-quality fish oil supplement can be a more convenient way to ensure you’re getting enough before surgery.

Iron

Iron has a function in the production of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. Adequate iron levels are essential for wound healing and overall recovery after surgery.

If you’re anaemic or have low iron levels, your plastic surgeon might recommend iron supplementation before your procedure. This can help ensure your body has the resources it needs to heal effectively and reduce the risk of complications.

Good food sources of iron include red meat, spinach, and lentils, but supplements can provide a more concentrated dose if needed.

Probiotics

While not directly involved in wound healing, probiotics help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. This is important because a balanced gut flora supports your immune system, which is vital for preventing infections and promoting overall healing.

Additionally, some studies suggest that probiotics may help reduce the risk of certain post-operative complications. Consider incorporating a high-quality probiotic supplement into your pre-surgery routine, especially if you’re prone to digestive issues.

Bromelain

Derived from pineapples, bromelain is an enzyme known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling properties. It’s often recommended for plastic surgery patients to help reduce post-operative swelling and bruising.

Bromelain may also help with pain management and could potentially speed up your recovery time. While you can get some bromelain from eating pineapple, a supplement can provide a more potent and consistent dose.

Arnica

Arnica is a homeopathic remedy that’s been used for centuries to treat bruising and inflammation. Many plastic surgeons recommend arnica supplements or topical treatments to help manage post-operative bruising and swelling.

While scientific evidence for arnica’s effectiveness is mixed, many patients report positive results. If you’re interested in trying arnica, discuss it with your plastic surgeon to determine if it’s appropriate for your specific procedure and health status.

When to Start Taking Supplements

The timing aspect is decisive when it comes to pre-operative supplementation. Generally, you’ll want to start your supplement regimen well in advance of your surgery date to allow the nutrients to build up in your system.

For most supplements, starting about 2-4 weeks before your surgery is ideal. This gives your body enough time to absorb and utilise the nutrients effectively. However, some supplements may need to be started earlier or later, depending on their specific properties and your individual needs.

Here’s a general timeline for some common supplements:

• Vitamin C, D, and Zinc: Start 2-4 weeks before surgery
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Begin 2-4 weeks before surgery
• Iron: If recommended by your surgeon, start 4-6 weeks before surgery
• Probiotics: Can be started 2-4 weeks before surgery
• Bromelain and Arnica: Often started just before surgery or immediately after, as directed by your surgeon

Keep in mind that while starting supplements early can be beneficial, you may also need to stop taking certain supplements a week or so before your surgery. This is because some supplements can interfere with blood clotting or interact with anaesthesia.

Always provide your plastic surgeon with a complete list of all supplements you’re taking, including dosages. Anca may advise you to adjust your supplement routine as your surgery date approaches.

The goal of pre-operative supplementation is to ensure your body is in the best possible condition for surgery and recovery.

Supplements to Avoid Before Surgery

Like we mentioned before, there are some supplements that you should avoid in the weeks leading up to your procedure. These supplements may interfere with blood clotting, interact with anaesthesia, or cause other complications during or after surgery.

Here are some common supplements that you should typically stop taking at least two weeks before surgery:

Vitamin E

Although Vitamin E is an important antioxidant, it can also act as a blood thinner. This property, while often beneficial for heart health, can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery. It’s generally recommended to stop Vitamin E supplements about two weeks before your procedure.

Ginkgo Biloba

This popular herbal supplement is known for its potential cognitive benefits, but it also has blood-thinning properties. Like Vitamin E, it can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery and should be discontinued at least two weeks prior.

Garlic Supplements

While garlic is a healthy addition to your diet, garlic supplements can significantly thin your blood. If you’re taking garlic in supplement form, you should stop at least two weeks before surgery.

Ginseng

Ginseng is a popular supplement for boosting energy and reducing stress, but it can interfere with blood clotting and blood sugar levels. It’s best to avoid ginseng for at least two weeks before your procedure.

St. John’s Wort

This herbal supplement, often used for mild depression, can interact with anaesthesia and other medications used during surgery. It’s typically recommended to stop taking St. John’s Wort at least two weeks before surgery.

Fish Oil

While omega-3 fatty acids can be recommended before surgery, high doses of fish oil can thin your blood. Your plastic surgeon may advise you to stop fish oil supplements about a week before surgery, or she might recommend reducing your dosage.

Turmeric or Curcumin

Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric (or its active compound curcumin) can also thin the blood. It’s generally advised to stop these supplements about two weeks before surgery.

It’s important to remember that this list is not exhaustive. Always inform your surgeon about ALL supplements you’re taking, including those not mentioned here. Some supplements may need to be stopped earlier than two weeks before surgery, while others may be safe to continue.

Moreover, don’t assume that because something is “natural” or “herbal,” it’s automatically safe to take before surgery. Many herbal supplements can have powerful effects on your body and may interact with medications or affect surgical outcomes.

Your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on which supplements to avoid and when to stop taking them. Following these instructions carefully is essential for your safety and the success of your procedure.

FAQs about Nutritional Supplements before Plastic Surgery

Can I just take a multivitamin instead of individual supplements before my plastic surgery?

• A high-quality multivitamin can be beneficial, but it may not provide optimal amounts of specific nutrients important for surgery preparation. Anca might recommend individual supplements to ensure you’re getting the right dosages of nutrients like Vitamin C or zinc.

Are there any natural alternatives to supplement pills that I can incorporate into my diet before surgery?

• Yes, there are several food-based alternatives you can consider. For example, bone broth is rich in collagen and amino acids that support healing. Pineapple contains natural bromelain, which may help with inflammation. Green tea is high in antioxidants. Remember that it’s challenging to get therapeutic doses of certain nutrients from food alone, which is why supplements are often recommended.

How might my age affect the supplements I should take before plastic surgery?

• Age can indeed influence your supplementation needs. Older patients might require higher doses of certain nutrients, as the body’s ability to absorb and utilise nutrients often decreases with age. For instance, Vitamin D absorption typically declines in older adults.

Will taking supplements before surgery affect the anaesthesia in any way?

• Some supplements can interact with anaesthesia, which is why it’s important to inform your surgeon and anaesthetist about all supplements you’re taking. For example, St. John’s Wort and valerian root can interact with anaesthetic drugs. Ginseng might affect blood sugar levels during surgery. Your medical team will advise you on which supplements to stop before surgery to ensure safe anaesthesia administration.

Is it safe to continue my supplement regimen immediately after surgery, or should I wait?

• Post-surgery supplement use should be guided by your plastic surgeon. Some supplements that were beneficial before surgery might need to be avoided immediately after due to their effects on bleeding or inflammation. Others, like Vitamin C and zinc, might be recommended to continue for their wound-healing properties.

Further Reading about Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna

• Read more about Anti-Inflammatory Diet before Plastic Surgery
• Read more about How Alcohol Affects Plastic Surgery Results
• Read more about Risks of Smoking before or after Breast Surgery
• Read more about Plastic Surgery FAQs
• Read more about Your Patient Journey
• Read more about What to Pack for Your Hospital Bag for Plastic Surgery
• Read more about How to Avoid Bloating after Plastic Surgery

Medical References for Supplements before Plastic Surgery

• Evidence-Based Perioperative Nutrition Recommendations: Optimizing Results and Minimizing Risks
• Use of Herbal Supplements and Vitamins in Plastic Surgery: A Practical Review
• A Guide to Perioperative Nutrition
• 10 supplements and certain medications to pause before surgery
• Optimizing Nutritional Status of Patients Prior to Major Surgical Intervention