How to Prepare for Plastic Surgery: Your Easy-to-Follow Guide
Congratulations you have finally decided to do it! Whether it is a tummy-tuck or a breast augmentation operation, having plastic surgery is an important moment in your life.! However, it is easy to get lost in the excitement and stress, leaving you potentially unprepared. Worry not, we have round up a set of useful tips to save you time and headaches when preparing for surgery. Head is our surgery preparation checklist to be ready when the important day comes!
Plastic Surgery Checklist
Talk to your doctor
Have any questions? Ask them! Are you nervous about something? Express it! While our medical staff at VIDA is available at all times to answer any questions you may have, it is a good idea to reserve an appointment and go through all your doubts with your personal doctor. Talk about your expectations, questions and fears. Be sure to ask about your recovery treatment: medication, subsequent doctor’s appointments and any dietary restrictions. If your surgery involves general anesthesia, reserve some time to talk to your anesthesiologist as well. Discuss your health habits such as, if you consume any medication and also what your previous experience with anesthesia was like.
Prepare mentally
Surgeries are a stress-inducing procedure. It is important you reach your special day with a clear mind and a positive attitude, these two tools that will help you heal faster. Scientific studies from Harvard University have proven that a few minutes of mindful meditation can help reduce anxiety, stress and even improve heart health. Apps like Headspace and Smiling Mind offer bitesize meditation practices that help you better manage your stress levels. Give meditation a try a few days before your surgery, these mental exercises can help your brain feel more relaxed and prone to visualize positive images for your recovery. They can also be useful to manage any pain or discomfort caused by the procedure. And, who knows? Maybe you have found a new healthy habit for your daily routine! You can also keep a diary with your after-surgery goals. This will be a constant reminder of your coming days!
Find a go-to buddy
At VIDA, our doctors and staff will make sure you are as comfortable as possible. However, it is always a good idea to find a helping partner for this journey. For example, it is not advisable for you to drive the day of your surgery and when checking out of our recovery boutique, it is best to find a way to arrive home, preferably with someone special who knows your favorite songs.
In addition, having a friendly and familiar face during your recovery time can be very beneficial: from grabbing your favorite smoothie to helping out with administrative matters, your go-to buddy will brighten your post-surgery days!
Diet
Preparing for surgery can mean changing or adapting your diet. This is not the moment to lose weight with restrictive diets, this is the moment to consume healthy and nutritious meals.
Keeping hydrated is also a must, drink enough water to help your body eliminate toxins and waste. Your body will heal faster if you prepare for surgery in a holistic way. If possible,prepare the foods you like ahead of time so when you are back at home you have healthy homemade meals available.
You shouldn’t smoke or use smokeless tobacco for at least 24 hours before surgery and you shouldn’t drink alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery.
Plastic Surgery Consultation
You may have everything ready, but may you wonder what to do the day before surgery.Follow our easy- tips to have a hassle-free surgery day:
- Take a relaxing bath the night before, you will feel fresh during your pre-surgery hours. However, don’t apply lotions or any oils. Especially to the area of your operation.
- Don’t eat or drink anything eight hours before the procedure. Don’t worry, your physician will give you specific instructions.
- Remove all rings, earring, watches, body piercings makeup and nail polish.
- Don’t smoke at least 24 hours before surgery and don’t consume alcohol.
- Avoid shaving or waxing, if your surgery calls for hair removal it will be done for at the hospital. If you are having breast surgery, do not apply deodorant.
Dr. Alejandro Quiroz
Dr. Quiroz is our board-certified Chief Plastic Surgeon at VIDA Clinic in Tijuana. He specializes in Facial Rejuvenation, Neck lift, Buttock Augmentation, Breast Augmentation, Body Contouring and more. He is member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, San Diego Plastic Surgery Society, the Mexican Society of Aesthetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgery and the Mexican Council of Aesthetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, to mention a few.