How to Prepare for Plastic Surgery?
One of the most common questions plastic surgery patients ask is how to prepare for their procedure and what to do or not to do prior and following their Beverly Hills plastic surgery. Though some plastic surgery procedures require more specific preparation and incur a slightly different set of rules for optimum recovery, there are a number of general rules and recommendations that all prospective plastic surgery patients should keep in mind when preparing and planning for their upcoming procedure.
One of the best long-term recommendations for any surgical patient, which of course includes patients preparing for plastic surgery procedures, is to adopt as healthy a lifestyle as possible both before and after the procedure. This includes not smoking for at least a month before and after surgery as smoking can hinder the patient’s recovery time. Generally speaking the healthier the patient is entering surgery, the better the chances of keeping potential risks and complications to a minimum. Plastic surgery patients who maintain a healthy and active lifestyle also tend to have a shorter recovery period. Another important point to keep in mind is to stop taking aspirin, motrin, ibuprofen or any other blood thinning medication for at least two weeks before and after surgery. Blood thinning medications can increase the chance of bleeding during surgery so avoiding them around the surgery and recovery is crucial. It is also paramount to make sure to fill prescriptions before the surgery and have them already available at home before the procedure in preparation of recovery at home following plastic surgery.
Patients preparing for plastic surgery should avoid eating or drinking after midnight the night before surgery. The day of the plastic surgery no food or drinks should be consumed, and even water is not allowed. Patients should take a good shower the morning of surgery to prepare for their procedure. This helps to reduce the bacteria on your skin. Finally, patients should make sure to have a competent person to take them home and to stay with them for at least 24 hours after surgery. Keeping these recommendations in mind will ensure the patient’s comfort and safety both before and after their planned plastic surgery procedure.
Throughout all stages of the plastic surgery procedure, from the initial consultation to the recovery afterwards, American Board of Plastic Surgery certified Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Warren Lent will be on hand to ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible.