You should properly prepare yourself both physically and mentally before any kind of surgery. A serious change is about to happen to your body, so take every precaution to reduce possible complications and to quicken the healing process.
No more smoking or drinking! Smoking constricts blood flow and slows down your body’s healing capabilities. Drinking can also affect your healing and immune system, making it easier to contract illness and disease. Alcohol consumption prior to surgery can also make you more susceptible to bleeding. You shouldn’t drink any alcohol before or after surgery until your surgeon gives you approval. All prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications (including vitamins and supplements) that you take should be discussed with your surgeon at your consultation and again at your pre-operative appointment.
Patients on regular medications for blood pressure, heart conditions, thyroid issues, and psychiatric conditions should stay on these medications as prescribed. Two weeks prior to your procedure, you may begin taking multivitamin supplements with the approval of your surgeon, including vitamins A and C. Bromelain can also help relieve swelling after surgery, and homeopathic arnica ointment can be used to prevent and treat bruising.
Boost your body’s immune system and healthy by eating healthy and regularly. Maintain a healthy diet and weight, this includes eating fruits, vegetables, and protein with every meal. Extreme dieting before surgery is not advised, as good nutrition and a stable weight is important for proper healing.
Make sure to get all your prescriptions filled ahead of time, especially any that are related to your procedure, and have someone ready to drive you to and from the procedure. Have somewhere prepared to recover after your surgery.
When you decide to have a treatment with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, we will help you prepare physically and mentally to ensure the greatest chances of success for the procedure. Contact Suffolk Plastic Surgeons P.C. at 631-364-0333 for your complimentary consultation!
