Preparing For Your Upcoming Cosmetic Surgery

Your plastic surgeon wants to provide you with the best possible surgical results with as rapid and comfortable recovery as possible. Specific instructions will be provided for the procedure(s) that you will be having. However, the following tips before surgery will help a patient have the best surgical experience possible.

Presurgical Education

Studies have shown that informed patients felt less anxiety before and after surgery. Take the time to research the procedure you are having via books or the internet. Make sure you understand the procedure you are having and don't be afraid to ask questions prior to surgery such as: What type of anesthesia will be used ? How long with the procedure take? What medications will I take? When can I start doing normal activities? When can I shower and apply makeup?

Medications, Smoking and Supplements

Discontinue use of any nicotine products at least 2 weeks prior to surgery. This includes cigarettes, cigars, nicotine gum, and patches. Nicotine reduces the blood flow to the skin and may impair healing; and quitting smoking drastically improves the body's response to surgery. Stop using medications containing aspirin and ibuprofen two weeks prior to surgery. Aspirin thins the blood and can produce excess bleeding and bruising. Be sure to read the labels of any over-the-counter remedies you regularly take as many common medications contain aspirin. For the same reason, also avoid: Vitamin E and herbal supplements, herbal teas, and red wine.

Begin using an Arnica supplement 7 days prior to surgery and continue for one week after surgery. Arnica is a naturopathic remedy that helps prevent as well as clear bruising. Arnica is available in either tablet form or in topical patches. It is my preference to use both for my patient but the oral form is the most important. You should also consider adding Vitamin K to your diet. This fat-soluble vitamin plays an important role in blood clotting and can be found in such foods as spinach, broccoli, and kiwi.

Plan for Success

During your recovery, you want to be as relaxed and comfortable as possible. By planning in advance, you can set yourself up for a worry-free time when your body can completely concentrate on recuperation.

1) Plan your wardrobe for the day of surgery and the week following. Loose-fitting clothing that can be unbuttoned or unzipped down the front is best.

2) Designate an area in your home for yourself - such as a quiet bedroom or sofa away from busy family activities

3) Even if you are having a minor procedure, you will still need a minimum of 24 hours to recover from anesthesia, and will not be up to handling responsibilities by yourself. If you do not have a friend or family member to care for you the night of surgery, ask your plastic surgeon about staying overnight in the surgery center or hospital, or at a nearby hotel with the attendance of a nurse or aide.

4) Get all your prescriptions filled prior to your surgery

5) Plan your meals for the week after surgery and make the necessary trip to the grocery store

6) Arrange for child care

7) Rest and sleep, combined with small meals and plenty of fluids, are key to a quick and comfortable recovery.

8) Avoid excessive sun exposure for at least two weeks after most surgeries.

9) Be patient. Everything (swelling going done, bruising going away, etc.) takes longer than almost every patient expects or wants.

The number one cause of postoperative pain and complications is 'overdoing' it after surgery. With proper planning and arrangements, as outlined above, this can be avoided and a smoother recovery will occur.

Dr Barry Eppley is a board-certified plastic surgeon in private practice in Indianapolis, Indiana at Clarian Health Systems. (http://www.eppleyplasticsurgery.com) He writes a daily blog on plastic surgery, spa therapies, and medical skin care at http://www.exploreplasticsurgery.com

By Dr Barry Eppley