The role and management of mineral supplementation in plastic surgery patients: a comprehensive review

Mineral deficiencies can predispose patients to surgical complications and poor wound healing. Moreover, it is known that a significant number of patients are on vitamin- and mineral supplements. Given the importance of nutritional status for any patient, a plastic surgeon should be aware about the role and management minerals for their patients, and how they can affect surgical outcomes.

Literature on minerals was reviewed and summarized to include biological functions, surgical relevance, and effects of deficiency. Scientific evidence was used to collate advice to plastic surgeons regarding mineral management in the perioperative setting.

Minerals play fundamental physiological roles, some of which contribute to postoperative wound healing and immune response. Screening and supplementation for specific minerals can be considered based on patient characteristics, nutritional and medical history, and history of bariatric surgery.

Plastic surgeons should have open discussions with patients to learn about which mineral supplements they take and whether they are at risk for deficiency. This comprehensive review discusses and provide guidance surrounding chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc in the context of plastic surgery.

Not ratable.