Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the leading professional journal for plastic surgeons, found some interesting statistics:

• 55% of plastic surgery patients use herbs vs. 24% of the general public
  
• 35% of plastic surgery patients were more likely to engage in homeopathic practices, as well as acupuncture, hypnosis, chiropractic manipulation, massage, yoga and Pilates vs. 6% of the general population who use homeopathy weekly

In general, people who undergo cosmetic surgery are more health conscious and use a variety of ways to improve their lifestyle, including taking herbs. It's important to let doctors know which medications—prescribed or otherwise—you take. This gives surgeons the information they need to recommend a discontinuation period (24 hours to a month), vital for safe surgery and uneventful recovery.

The journal lists the top ten herbs to avoid before your plastic surgery. Be sure to check with your physician before changing your routine.

1. Ginseng: Enhances energy levels. Can cause high blood pressure or a racing heart when combined with some medicines used by the anesthesiologist. Can slow blood clotting.

2. Ephedra (ma huang): Known to promote weight loss, increase energy and treat respiratory tract conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): it can raise blood pressure, heart rate and metabolic rate, ultimately causing heart attacks, heart arrhythmia, stroke and even death.

3. St. John's Wort: Used to treat depression and anxiety. Can prolong the effects of some narcotics and anesthetics.

4. Ginko Biloba: Increases circulation. Can cause unnecessary bleeding during a surgical procedure.

5. Garlic: Lowers blood fat levels. Can increase bleeding during surgery.

6. Licorice: Relieves indigestion and heartburn. Can cause liver problems and water retention during surgery.

7. Glucosamine: Eases joint distress. Contains chemicals that mimic human insulin, which may result in high blood sugar during surgery.

8. Chondroitin: Folk remedy for bone arthritis. Can cause excess bleeding when combined with doctor-prescribed blood-thinning medications.

9. Valerian: Mild sedative. Can increase the effect of anesthesia and cause a deeper sleep during surgery.

10. Echinacea: Prevents and treats viral, bacterial and fungal infections, chronic wounds, ulcers and arthritis. Can trigger immunosuppression, resulting in poor wound healing and infection.

Other herbs that may cause surgical complications include goldenseal, melatonin, kava and milk thistle.

Source: Cosmetic Surgery Insider Blog by CosmeticSurgery.com, May 7, 2008