At our Edina plastic surgery center, we believe in ensuring excellent results for our patients and making each procedure as safe as possible. That means properly preparing a patient before body contouring surgery or any other kind of procedure.
We’d like to take a moment to consider the importance of pre-op instructions. As you’re about to read, getting ready for surgery can be just as important as resting after the procedure is done.
Healing Begins Before Surgery
Before undergoing surgery, patients can do a lot to get their bodies ready for the recovery process. In essence, pre-op instructions are given in order to help patients recover as quickly as possible, experiencing less severe side effects and reducing the risk of serious complications.
Custom instructions will be given to patients during the consultation process, but these general instructions below will give you a basic idea of what the pre-op process is like.
Avoid Tobacco Products
Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco can slow down healing times and increase your risk of infection after surgery. Be sure to avoid tobacco products for at least two weeks before surgery, and continue avoiding tobacco products for a few weeks after the procedure as well.
Avoid Alcoholic Beverages
Like tobacco products, alcoholic beverages can have a negative impact on healing and recovery. Be sure to avoid alcoholic beverages for at least two weeks prior to surgery and continue to abstain from alcohol until a few weeks after surgery.
Avoid Certain Medications and Supplements
Blood thinning medication, aspirin, and certain drugs can lead to increased health risks after surgery. Before your procedure, discuss any medications or supplements you’re taking with your surgeon to determine what you can and cannot take before surgery.
Take Time Off from Work
Time off work is essential for proper recovery. Patients will be asked to take anywhere between a week to three weeks off from work (sometimes more). Make these arrangements with your employer ahead of time.
Run Errands and Fill Prescriptions
Before surgery, patients have time to get things set around the home so they can rest easy as they heal. Run errands, fill prescriptions, buy groceries, do laundry, and finish any tasks that will help you relax in the days following surgery.
Arrange for Transportation
Patients will not be in any fit state to operate a vehicle after surgery. Be sure to arrange for transportation to and from your surgery in order to avoid injuries and accidents.
Have a Loved One with You as You Heal
The first days after surgery can be difficult for a variety of reasons. Be sure to have a loved one with you during these first few days to provide emotional support and to help around the home.
What to Do the Night Before Surgery
Before surgery, be sure to follow all instructions given by your surgeon to the letter. You may be asked to fast at a certain point in order to avoid surgical complications. Similarly, special bathing instructions may be provided in order to reduce infection risk.
What to Do the Day of Your Surgery
On the day of the surgery, be sure to come to the practice wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Avoid wearing perfume/cologne, makeup, lotion, or facial creams. Similarly, do not wear any accessories or jewelry either. It’s important to arrive calm and with a positive attitude as well.
Contact Our Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center
For more information about plastic surgery recovery and other aspects of care, we encourage you to contact our cosmetic plastic surgery practice today. The entire team here will work with you to ensure problem-free recovery and exceptional results.
