Tips on How to Prepare for Cosmetic Surgery
If you are currently scheduled for your first cosmetic surgery—congratulations! You are about to embark on an incredible and transformative journey.
Although it can feel overwhelming or nerve-wracking (like any surgery), It is entirely okay, even expected, to feel anxious before your cosmetic surgery. However, we promise that the more prepared you are, the more in control and comfortable you will feel in the days leading up to your surgery.
Most surgeons have their specific preparation list, but there are a few general rules of thumb that you can abide by before your cosmetic surgery to ensure that your surgery is a success! Keep reading for a few helpful tips on how to prepare for your first cosmetic surgery properly.
Although it can feel overwhelming or nerve-wracking (like any surgery), It is entirely okay, even expected, to feel anxious before your cosmetic surgery.
LEARN ABOUT THE PROCEDURE
First and foremost, you will want to understand the ins and outs of your procedure intimately. By learning and understanding the procedure, you will have realistic expectations of pre and post-surgery expectations.
It is essential to understand that all surgeries have risks, and you must know the risks, benefits, etc., before moving forward. Ask your surgeon to outline the possible complications and possible side effects of the surgery.
Understand when you must contact a medical professional in case of emergency and discuss pain management.
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
Once you understand the procedure in detail and have a surgery date scheduled, you will want to make sure that a medical professional assesses you at least a month before to ensure that you are healthy enough to undergo surgery.
You will also want to either continue or implement a healthy lifestyle! Exercise frequently, go on daily walks and stay hydrated. If you are a smoker, stop smoking no less than two weeks before your surgery (smoking interferes with your body’s ability to provide adequate blood flow) and avoid taking aspirin or aspirin products. Further, abstain from drinking alcohol for at least 72-hours beforehand.
Being in good health lowers the risks of complications both during and after surgery. If you are in good physical health, your recovery will also be much faster!
PLAN AHEAD
Before your surgery, take adequate measures to ensure you will be able to get plenty of rest. Take PTO and discuss with your partner, friends, or family your recovery process.
Confirm who will be driving you to and from your surgery. Make sure you have someone who can aid in distributing your medication, maintain household chores, and monitor your recovery (i.e., swelling, bruising, stitches, etc.) in addition to driving you to your follow-up appointments.
Further, consider where you will be sleeping (living room vs. bedroom, etc.) and gather what you will need in entertainment. You will be horizontal for some time while recovering, and you don’t want to get bored. Keep snacks, water bottles, and anything else you will need near.
We recommend planning your meals ahead of time and putting them in the freezer to be easily accessible, and you don’t have to worry about cooking.
You will need all the support you can get post-surgery, so it is essential to plan ahead.
STAY HYDRATED
This tip could fall under maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, we thought it would be an excellent idea for this tip to have its own space because of its importance. When you are preparing for surgery, it is vital that you are hydrated and drinking plenty of water.
Drinking enough water ensures that your body can sustain essential functions like digestion and improves your tissue health.
How much water you need to drink will be dependent on your size and weight, but a good rule of thumb is to drink 6-8 glasses per day. Post-surgery, it is equally as important to stay hydrated, so keep a water bottle close by!
FOLLOW YOUR SURGEON’S INSTRUCTIONS
Depending on the surgeon, you are likely to receive a detailed guide about your plastic surgery recovery that entails specific instructions on what to eat, medications to discontinue, what to bring to the procedure, what to expect regarding side effects, etc.
Your surgeon is experienced and has your best interest in mind. We highly recommend that you read through the instructions they provide carefully, inquire if you have a question, and follow the instructions to the tee to ensure you are wholly prepared for your cosmetic surgery.
Our team at WellSpring Plastic Surgery is here to support you!
From the moment you enter our office to your final follow-up post-surgery, we are there to guide you step-by-step. Choosing to undergo surgery is a monumental decision. We want you to feel comfortable, knowledgeable and prepared to make the best decision for you.
If you are still on the fence regarding cosmetic surgery, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons to discuss your case in detail.
In the meantime, feel free to reach out to us with any questions that you may have. We look forward to hearing from you!
At Wellspring Plastic Surgery we offer complimentary consultations to ensure our patients are completely informed, comfortable and receive the best results.
Call us at 512-600-2888 to set up your consultation!
