Whether it’s cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, preparation helps minimize risks and improves your overall experience. When you are well-informed, organized, and physically ready, you increase your chances of having a positive outcome after your cosmetic surgery. Here’s how to prepare for your plastic surgery appointment:
Research Your Procedure
Conduct research on the surgical techniques, risks, and benefits of your plastic surgery procedure. Know the expected recovery process, how long the downtime would be, and the expected results. See before and after photos of patients and understand potential side effects and complications. Find out how long the results will last, as some plastic surgery procedures may need future touch-ups.
Ask Detailed Questions
Ask your surgeon detailed questions before the surgery to clarify each step they will take during the procedure. Inquire about anesthesia and pain control during and after surgery. Request information about post-operative care and any potential complications to watch for. Make sure you know when you can return to your normal activities, such as attending work and exercising.
Plan Your Recovery Time
Arrange for help with meals, cleaning, pet care, errands, and personal care by asking someone to assist you after your procedure. Create a space in your house that’s relaxing, and make sure to keep key items around you, like pillows, water, snacks, entertainment, and necessary electronics. Schedule some time off work, avoid lifting heavy objects, and stay away from intense physical activities. If you have children, arrange for childcare so that you can rest. Follow the post-operative instructions, apply your dressings as instructed, and take the medications as prescribed. Monitor for possible complications and contact your physician with any concerns.
Set realistic recovery goals, track daily improvements, and celebrate small wins when sharing progress updates with your surgeon. To prevent the skin around your surgical site from getting irritated, wear loose clothing such as button-up tops, elastic waist pants, and slip-on shoes. Schedule follow-up appointments to assess your healing and review the results of your plastic surgery procedure. Fill your time with light activities like reading, watching shows, or journaling to avoid putting too much strain on yourself. Optimize recovery by focusing on nighttime sleep, using pillows for support, and napping throughout the day when needed.
Complete All Medical Tests
Your doctor will review your medical history prior to the procedure. This review includes your current medications, allergies, previous surgeries, family medical history, and lifestyle habits such as smoking. A physical exam consists of checking your height, weight, skin condition, heart and lung function, and the area to be operated on during surgery.
Blood tests help your doctor identify anemia and assess your coagulation ability. They also provide information about your liver and kidney function, blood type, and general health markers. An electrocardiogram (ECG) measures your heart rate and rhythm, which allows the doctor to identify any arrhythmias. A chest X-ray can reveal lung infections and heart problems or provide a baseline of lung health. Imaging studies may also be requested to help the surgeon plan the procedure and assess risks. These can include MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds. These medical tests help your surgeon tailor the procedure to your specific needs.
Follow Pre-op Instructions
You may be advised to avoid using medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen to lower bleeding risk before the procedure. If you’re taking blood thinners, you may need to discuss safe alternatives to prevent complications during the surgery. Before surgery, some surgeons ask you to stay hydrated but to stop eating or drinking several hours before. This fasting decreases the likelihood of complications from anesthesia.
Hygiene instructions can include taking a thorough shower with antibacterial soap the night before surgery. You may also be asked to use unique skincare products, such as gentle cleansers, antioxidant serums, and moisturizers, to prepare your skin. Some surgeries require patients to have no products on their skin before treatment. Patients should abstain from lotions, deodorants, or makeup that can interfere with the surgery. Mobility-limiting procedures require you to arrange post-op transportation and support.
Prepare for Plastic Surgery
Preparing for your plastic surgery procedure can promote a smoother surgical experience and improved healing. Along with planning your recovery time and following pre-op instructions, tell your doctor about any allergies to medications, latex products, or anesthesia. This information allows your surgical team to take appropriate precautions to avoid allergic reactions during the procedure. Contact a qualified surgeon to help you plan your surgery.
