By the time patients have gone through consultation with the plastic surgeon, they will have selected the implant material, implant size, profile (widest diameter of the implant concerning its height), and incision approach. The type of anesthesia to be used for the procedure may also have been discussed. At this point, many patients may assume that the next step will be to show up on the day of surgery. However, there are several essential instructions that patients will need to follow before the surgical appointment.
Two Weeks Prior
Patients who drink alcohol or smoke should quit about two weeks before the breast augmentation procedure. Both smoking and alcohol can cause longer and less optimal wound healing and increase excessive scarring risk. Ideally, this is the time when patients should quit for good, but at the very least, they should wait until four to six weeks after surgery to resume. This is also the time for patients to talk with the surgeon about all medications, vitamins, supplements, and herbs (including any herbal teas) they are regularly taking. Some of these may interfere with the healing process.
One to Two Weeks Prior
This is when patients should start looking at preparing certain things in advance not to have to worry about them after the surgery. Fill all regular prescriptions, along with any prescriptions for antibiotics or painkillers to be taken after the surgery.
Arrange to have a friend or family member drive you to and from the surgery. You will not be allowed to have a taxi take you back home. Have this person stay with you for the first one to two days after the surgery. Also, arrange to have them take care of children and pets.
Few Days Prior
Change batteries for the TV remote and fully charge both cellular and cordless phones, as well as any iPods or laptop computers. Arrange necessities such as tissues, TV remote, books and magazines, medications, water, and trashcan next to the bed. Do all the laundry, including sheets for the bed. Set aside loose pants with an elastic waistband, along with several loose-fitting button-down shirts for both the day of surgery and the first few days afterward. Prepare soft, easy-to-eat foods ahead of time, such as Jello, soup, or applesauce.
Day of Procedure
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the day of your procedure. Take a long, hot shower to shave and wash your hair. Do not wear any deodorant, perfume, jewelry, or makeup on the day of surgery. Leave contact lenses at home. Bring warm socks, as the pre-op room will be cold.
It is tempting to consider an elective surgery such as a breast augmentation procedure not as serious as a medically necessary procedure. The truth is that patients who follow all of the pre-op instructions will not only be less uncomfortable following the procedure but will heal faster and with better results.
*The content in this blog is developed to spread the awareness towards plastic surgery. Our blog is not intended to serve as a replacement for an actual in-office consultation with Dr. Marin. As such, the information within this blog reflects the unique cases of our individual patients.
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