| - | Plastic surgery for patients using herbal supplementsSerious consequences possible during surgery | Natural herbal supplements are supposed to help boost our immune systems, give us more energy and make us generally healthier. However, according to latest research, many of these "harmless" supplements could cause dangerous side effects during plastic surgery. The study found approximately 55 percent of plastic surgery patients, compared to 24 percent of the general public, take supplements but often do not tell their surgeons. That means serious complications in some cosmetic surgery patients. | | | | Dr. James Bradley, study co-author, says, "When patients are asked about the medications they are taking, many do not mention medicinal herbs because they assume that they are safe," said ASPS member . "What many unsuspecting patients don't know is that the natural herbs they are taking may cause serious complications during and after surgery." There is also a misunderstanding that supplements are not medication - at least that is what the FDA thinks and refuses to regulate them. But that does not mean that herbal supplements do not have any side effects or you should not share this information with your surgeon. | All 55 percent of plastic surgery patients who used herbal supplements took at least two different supplements and at least one on a daily basis. The most popular herbal supplements were chondroitin, ephedra, echinacea, and glucosamine.
According to Dr. Bradley, "Patients should tell doctors about all of the medications they are taking – natural or prescribed. Only then can we safely suggest the appropriate discontinuation period, which can range from 24 hours to one month. Taking this precaution is essential to a safe surgery and smooth recovery."
We have heard of similar cases with smoking by plastic surgery patients. So my recommendation is that it is better to give more information to your surgeon than less. S/he will know what to use and what to ignore. |
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