Arnica Ointment 10% Does Not Improve Upper Blepharoplasty Outcome: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Dermatology
• Evidence-Based Medicine

Background:

• Arnica is popularly believed to reduce swelling and bruising after cosmetic surgery.
• Evidence supporting arnica's efficacy in upper blepharoplasty patients is currently lacking.
• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess arnica's effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of topical arnica ointment in improving outcomes after upper blepharoplasty.
• To compare arnica ointment with placebo and no treatment for periorbital edema and ecchymosis.

Main Methods:

• 136 patients undergoing bilateral upper blepharoplasty were randomized.
• Arnica ointment 10% was compared against a placebo ointment.
• One periorbital area received treatment, while the contralateral side served as an internal control.

Main Results:

• No significant difference was observed in overall periorbital appearance between arnica and placebo groups at 3 days, 7 days, and 6 weeks.
• Secondary endpoints including swelling, ecchymosis, erythema, pain, and patient satisfaction showed no significant differences.
• Outcomes in untreated eyelids were comparable to those treated with either arnica or placebo.

Conclusions:

• Topical arnica ointment does not demonstrate a significant benefit in improving postoperative outcomes following upper blepharoplasty.
• The study suggests arnica ointment is not effective for reducing edema, ecchymosis, or pain after this procedure.