Preparation for Plastic Surgery Is Easier With This Guide

Dr. Golshani knows that the decision to have surgery is a complex and life-changing choice. While there are many exciting aspects of this decision, it’s also very normal to be anxious about preparing for plastic surgery. We want to provide you with as much information as possible to make sure you are comfortable, safe and ready. Let’s talk about the best ways to prepare - physically, psychologically and medically - to maximize your chances of having a smooth surgery, quick recovery and successful outcome.

Two to Four Weeks Before Surgery

  • Stop smoking at least three weeks before surgery. Smoking can interfere with wound healing. When you put carbon monoxide, nicotine and other chemicals into your body, they can reduce oxygen and blood flow to tissues. Any smoking is a contraindication to undergoing plastic surgery.
  • Stop taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (i.e. ibuprofen) or aspirin. If needed, use medications containing acetaminophen or daily baby aspirin. We will give you a list of drugs containing aspirin and ibuprofen. Please review it carefully as these drugs can cause bleeding problems during and after surgery.
  • Stop using recreational drugs, diet pills and herbal medications. They can cause dangerous complications with surgery and general anesthesia. Again, please carefully review the list of drugs to avoid prior to surgery.
  • Once you have scheduled your surgery, it is essential to eat a well-balanced diet, rest sufficiently, and take daily pre-operative supplements provided by our office. You should optimize your general health so recovery can be faster and easier. Yoga breathing and mild exercise are also helpful.
  • Take Vitamin C but limit Vitamin E. Start taking 500 I.U. of Vitamin C daily to promote healing but limit your intake of Vitamin E to less than 400 I.U. per day.
  • Avoid tanning as this can damage your skin and impair healing.
  • Fill your prescriptions for post-operative medications. Please have them filled BEFORE the day of surgery and bring them with you. These will include pain pills, antibiotics and anti-nausea medication.
  • Notify Dr. Golshani of any recent changes in your health including skin infections, bladder problems or respiratory infections.
  • To make your recovery as easy as possible, plan ahead for your recovery. This includes managing logistical issues including taking time off from work, having someone to help you with the housework and meal preparation, and arranging for childcare. You should not be doing any strenuous activity during the first two weeks after surgery including lifting small children. In addition, arrange for a friend or relative to bring you to the surgery center and to stay with you at home after surgery.
  • Prepare supplies such as antibacterial soap, dressings, and specific garments including a well-fitting cotton sports bra with front zipper. We will provide you a list of needed supplies.
  • Be financially prepared. It is important that you understand your financial responsibilities including your payment schedule, advance payment, insurance coverage and approval. Because the scheduling of plastic surgery requires careful planning and coordination of our staff as well as special preparation/sterilization of medical instruments, we hope you understand the importance of respecting our payment schedule and cancellation policy. Please ask any one of our staff for more details.
  • Try to relax! While it is easy to feel stressed about your upcoming surgery, please know that Dr. Golshani is an absolute expert at ensuring you are well-prepared for a safe and successful operation & recovery.

The Day Before Surgery

  • It is essential that you do not eat or drink anything after midnight - including water - unless instructed otherwise by your anesthesiologist.
  • Pack a bag and prepare comfortable clothes for surgery. Please wear something that snaps zips or buttons (i.e. a warm-up suit).
  • Remove all piercings before surgery.
  • Take any medications instructed by Dr. Golshani and set out your prescribed medications to bring with you on the day of surgery.
  • The night before surgery, shower and wash the surgical areas with antibacterial soap.
  • Try not to work too late, and get some rest!

The Morning of Surgery

  • Do NOT eat or drink anything, including water.
  • Take any medications Dr. Golshani specifically instructed you take in the morning. You may take it with a SIP of water early in the morning.
  • You may brush your teeth, but do not swallow the water.
  • Shower and wash the surgical areas again with Neutrogena soap if your surgical time allows.
  • Avoid all moisturizers, creams, lotions, and makeup.
  • Wear only comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that does not go over your head. Remove hairpins, wigs, and jewelry. Do not bring valuables with you.
  • Please arrive at the surgery center at least 1 hour before surgery with your prescribed medications. Patients less than 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

If you have any questions about how to prepare for your plastic surgery, please contact us any time.