Important Reminders Before Your Plastic Surgery
As you prepare for your cosmetic or plastic surgery, it's essential to understand the following points to ensure a smooth and safe experience. These guidelines are shared to minimize risks and help you achieve the best possible outcome.
01.
No Smoking: Smoking and plastic surgery are a dangerous combination. You must stop smoking at least two weeks before your surgery as it hampers healing and increases complications, especially skin necrosis.
02.
Medications to Avoid: Stop taking Vitamin E, fish oil supplements, herbal medicines, and garlic in large amounts at least two weeks before your surgery, as these can lead to excessive bleeding. However, other vitamins may be continued.
03.
Painkillers: Do not take any painkillers other than Panadol, Paracetamol, or Tylenol for two weeks before surgery to avoid complications like bleeding.
04.
Aspirin: Stop taking Aspirin one week before surgery. If you’re on prescribed Aspirin for a medical condition, inform your surgeon so they can coordinate with your physician.
05.
Oral Contraceptive: Discontinue oral contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy for at least one month before surgery, as they increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Use alternative contraceptive methods.
06.
Pregnancy: Inform your doctor if you think you may be pregnant, as this affects both the surgery and your baby’s health.
07.
Medical Updates: Notify Dr. Ahmed of any changes in your medical condition or new medications between your last consultation and the surgery.
08.
No Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for three days before surgery.
09.
Boost Vitamin C: Increase your Vitamin C intake to 500 mg – 1 gm per day to aid recovery.
Preparing for Surgery
01.
Home Preparation: Get your home ready with clean, fresh sheets, and use linen-savers (available at hospitals) to absorb any body fluids. Keep pets and unnecessary visitors away to minimize infection risks.
02.
Help at Home: Arrange for someone to pick you up after surgery and stay with you overnight. If that’s not possible, you may need to stay at the hospital for an additional fee.
03.
Personal Care: Remove all nail polish and, if your surgery involves the face, clean off all makeup before arriving. Leave jewelry and valuables at home. Bring personal essentials like a wide-tooth comb, toothbrush, and a loose-fitting gown for comfort.
04.
Bathing: Shower, wash, and tie your hair before surgery as it may be difficult to do afterward. If pre-op markings are made, reinforce them with a permanent marker (not a whiteboard marker).
Admission and Surgery
05.
Anesthetist Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the anesthetist at least two days before surgery for fitness checks and necessary blood tests.
06.
Surgeon Meeting: It’s unlikely you’ll meet your surgeon on the day of surgery as they may be with other patients. Ensure all your questions are answered during your final pre-op visit.
07.
Day of Surgery: Bring your green admission slip and arrive at the inpatient reception at least three hours before your scheduled surgery. Please note that surgery times may change due to unforeseen delays, so keep your day free.
08.
Post-Op Medications: Follow the post-surgery medication instructions even if you’re not in pain. These medicines also help reduce swelling and inflammation, not just discomfort.
Following these guidelines will help ensure your surgery is as smooth and successful as possible.