How to Prepare For Plastic Surgery

You have to do a lot of things before your big day.

What do you need for your recovery? When can you stop drinking Ibuprofen? Who will take care of your children? What can you eat?

There is no need to worry. With our article, everything becomes easier. Your surgeon will probably visit you once or twice prior to your surgery to discuss the last-minute details. This is also the best time to raise any concerns you have regarding your surgical procedure, the risks involved, recovery and expenses. Your surgeon may also give some advice on calming your pre-operation nervousness.

Additionally, you may have to go through some laboratory exams – such as a complete blood count before your surgical procedure. You will find out from these tests if you are in the best of health to go through your surgery.

Your surgeon should be able to provide you with an information packet explaining the things you need to know and do prior to your surgery. This should come with a list of the medications you need to take for about 2 weeks before and after your surgical procedure. This will most likely include aspirin plus other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like Ibuprofen, which can increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery.

Your surgeon may also explain the advantages of homeopathic remedies such as bromelain and Arnica Montana, which can reduce the bruising and swelling. To maximize their benefit, these should be taken prior to the surgery.

If you are a smoker, you should stop for at least two weeks before and after your surgery. Smoking considerably weakens circulation and therefore affects the healing process. Talk about the most effective ways to permanently get rid of the habit with your surgeon.

Getting ready for your recovery can smoothen up things a little bit. As a suggestion:

• Clean your house or hire someone to clean it before your surgery.
• Use a night lamp to easily go to the bathroom at nighttime.
• Stock up on food for recovery, like prepared or frozen meals, gelatin, pudding and other soft bland foods in case your surgery will have an effect on the way you eat.
• Prepare your bed with several pillows to raise your head (during the first days of recovery, it may be better to use a comfortable recliner instead of a bed).
• Find someone to take care of your child/pet in the initial phase of recovery.
• Prior to your surgery, buy all your medications as well as dressings, which include a thermometer, antibiotics, an antibacterial soap and bags of frozen peas or berries to reduce swelling.
• Arrange all your medications in a weekly pill container or in labeled cases marked with the times they need to be taken. Keep them close at hand.

During recovery, we suggest you to keep the following on your nightstand:

• Medications
• Bottled water
• Crackers
• Fully-charged phone beside your bed
• Remote control with brand new batteries