A new report released Monday may give patients some insight into the potential dangers of using homeopathic or natural remedies including herbs and teas before and after your plastic surgery in San Diego. The study published at the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery says that some natural supplements may be cause for serious complications when surgery is performed.
Physicians at Loma Linda University identified several herbal products and remedies and determined they should be avoided before and after surgery is performed to avoid excessive bleeding and other complications. These herbs and remedies include Chinese peony, ginger, ginkgo, garlic, Oil of wintergreen (methyl salicylate), ginseng, and Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens, Salbalserrulata). There are other herbs and remedies that may not be advisable before and after surgery – your plastic surgeon can tell you which other types of natural products should be avoided. If you are taking any natural supplements, let your plastic surgeon know before the surgery so s/he can advise you on the best course of action for a safe and speedy recovery.
“It is essential that plastic surgeons be aware of the popular, ‘natural’ products that have potentially dangerous bleeding effects. We conducted this review to help surgeons educate, screen and counsel their patients on herbal foods, supplements, teas, and other homeopathic remedies that can compromise patient safety,” said researcher Subhas C. Gupta, MD at Loma Linda University School of Medicine.
The plastic surgeon added, “Questions surgeons may want to ask their patients include whether the patient is taking any vitamins, herbs or supplements; what vegetables or plant products the patient has been eating in the past month; what types of teas the patient has been drinking recently; and whether the patient has ever taken any herbs or supplements in the past.”
These types of questions are important for a patient to answer before undergoing any type of plastic or cosmetic surgery in San Diego. A qualified board-certified doctor will also take the time to understand your specific case including your past and current medical history and any medications you are taking. However, if you feel any potential herb – including teas or compresses – can be of concern, do not hesitate to let your doctor know before you undergo any type of procedure.
Dr. Kincaid, a specialist in plastic surgery, has helped many men and women achieve the look they want with cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures in San Diego, Temecula, Riverside, and the greater Southern California area. If you’re considering plastic surgery, talk to a licensed and board-certified doctor who can address your concerns and make recommendations specific to the areas you wish to improve. If you’re located in San Diego, call Dr. Kincaid at his conveniently located La Jolla office at 858-450-4199. For those located in the Inland Empire/Temecula area, please call his office at 951-695-9934.
