A nutritional diet is an essential part of the healing process after a plastic surgery procedure such as breast augmentation or any form of invasive surgery. Eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, and taking certain supplements can speed up your healing following your procedure and reduce your risk of infection. A 2004 study found that combining several antioxidants could speed up your healing up to 20 percent, which means you can return to work and regular activities sooner than expected.

The study was relatively small with just 26 patients who were given an oral supplement known as InflammEnz that contains several vitamins and minerals or a placebo every day. Their healing was monitored, and those who received InflammEnz healed at an average rate of 17 percent faster than those who received the placebo. They also had less swelling and redness at the incision site.

Many supplements are typically safe to take following a plastic surgery procedure due to their healing and health benefits. Plastic surgeons have long recommended taking specific vitamins to aid in recovery. These vitamins and minerals were found to aid the recovery process in the 2004 study:

  • Vitamin C: This nutrient is essential for the growth and repair of your body tissues. Vitamin C promotes collagen production, aids the immune system, and prevents cell damage from free radicals in the blood.
  • Rutin: This supplement is often used in order to avoid strokes, address hemorrhoids, and improve varicose veins because it’s believed Rutin makes your blood vessels stronger. Rutin is found in edible plants such as asparagus, figs, and green tea.
  • Bromelain: This enzyme is typically found in pineapple stems and can reduce swelling in the muscles and tissues after an injury or invasive surgery. Many use it for helping nose and sinus congestion as well.
  • Grape Seed Extract: Evidence suggests Grape Seed Extract helps your body create new blood vessels and allows more Vitamin C absorption, which strengthens your cells and prevents severe scarring.

The study did not specify if the vitamins listed above need to be combined in order to work, and more research is needed, but many plastic surgeons recommend taking Vitamin C and others to reduce recovery time. Vitamin A and Zinc are also beneficial during the healing process.

It’s important to discuss all of the medications and supplements you’re taking prior to your procedure in case some of them inhibit healing or increase your likelihood of complications during surgery. During your initial consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Kutty will go over what you can continue taking and what you might need to eliminate.

Schedule Your Plastic Surgery Consultation in Sugar Land

If you’re interested in breast augmentation, a tummy tuck, or another type of plastic surgery, please contact Luxe Plastic Surgery in Sugar Land today at (281) 313-0551 to schedule your initial consultation. Our board-certified plastic surgeon and skilled staff serve patients in surrounding Texas areas including Houston and Katy.