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Even the most minor of cosmetic procedures will require some level of surgery preparation. Before you meet with your doctor to discuss your pending surgery, it can be helpful to read up on the basics of what you can expect. Ask your doctor for more personalized instructions about how to care for yourself before and after your surgery, and feel free to ask questions.

What Surgery Preparation Entails

Your plastic surgeon will provide you with detailed information about what you can and can’t do prior to your procedure. The specifics can vary depending on your physiology, as well as the nature of the surgery you’re receiving. But there are some basic steps you can take to prepare for your surgery:

• Talk to your doctor about any prescriptions or supplements you are currently taking to ensure they will not impact your surgery or post-op recovery.
• If anesthesia is involved, make sure you’re healthy enough to go under. (You should reschedule your surgery should you come down with any illness. Even a cold can obstruct your breathing when you go under.)
• Don’t smoke, drink or take aspirin or other blood thinners for two weeks prior to surgery.
• Stay well-hydrated unless otherwise specified.
• Eat healthy. The nutrients and protein will help foster healing.
• Take any and all vitamins and supplements as prescribed by your plastic surgeon.

If you will be undergoing anesthesia, you will also need to coordinate transportation to and from the surgical center.

The Healing Process

How long it takes to fully heal from plastic surgery depends on the procedure as well as the patient. It’s important to stick to your doctor’s instructions to ensure the most effective healing. If this means follow-up appointments, attend them. If this means medication, take it as prescribed and refrain from adding in any other supplements or pharmaceuticals that may cause negative reactions.

In addition, you must refrain from smoking until after you have fully healed. Smoking can prevent your lungs from adequately distributing oxygen throughout your bloodstream, which slows the healing process and leaves you susceptible to bruising.

Depending on the type of surgery, you should be back on your feet after a day or two. Unless you’ve been warned otherwise, don’t be afraid of physical activity! A nutritious diet and regular exercise will help along the healing process.

After your surgery, if anything seems wrong, schedule an appointment with your surgeon. Ignoring any post-surgery issues could impede the healing process.

Help at Every Step of Surgery Preparation

Livingston Plastic Surgery provides patients with all of the information they need to prepare for cosmetic surgery. We want to be sure you know what to expect after surgery as well, and will answer any questions or concerns you may have. For more information, schedule an appointment with us today.