Herbal Supplements Pose High Risk for Plastic Surgery Patients

February 15, 2006
According to a University of California-Los Angeles study, published in the February issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, herbal supplements may pose a serious risk when taken during plastic surgery. Dr. James Bradley of UCLA reports, “When patients are asked about the medications they are taking, many do not mention medicinal herbs because they assume that they are safe.”

These findings are even more concerning since the study found that 55 percent of patients who undergo plastic surgery reported taking two or more supplements a day, in comparison with only 24 percent of the general population. Of these natural supplements, certain ones were found to be more prevalent and more dangerous than others.

•  Chrondroitin , which is commonly used for treatment of osteoarthritis, can cause serious bleeding complications during plastic surgery.

•  Echinacea, a popular herbal supplement used for the prevention of illness can elicit immunosuppression when taken during plastic surgery, weakening the body's ability to heal.

•  Glucosamine , also used for arthritis treatment, case cause artificial hypoglycemia.

•  Ephedra , a supplement banned by the Food and Drug Administration, purportedly useful for weight loss and increasing energy, can cause heart attacks and strokes if taken during plastic surgery.

Doctors are troubled by this serious omission of information by patients and are encouraging them to disclose all herbal supplements and prescription medications prior to treatment to ensure their safety.

Dr. Bradley commented on the issue, “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.”

If you are considering plastic surgery, you may wish to speak with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss the benefits and risks associated with the procedure, as well as address any questions or concerns you might have.

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