Plastic Surgery Checklist: How To Gear Up For The Procedure

Plastic surgery is a common procedure that is largely being performed for cosmetic purposes. Getting the best results when it comes to surgery means getting in touch with professionals such as Dr. Andrew Jacono, MD, FACS, as no one wants a job that is half done, especially if going under the knife means improving someone’s appearance.

A large number of people opt for surgeries such as liposuction, breast augmentation, rhinoplasty (which might help to fix a hooked nose), facelift, and eyelid contouring to counter aging and improve their appearance. In some cases, patients get it done for resolving birth defects and accidental damage to the body. Whatever may be the reason for getting a surgery; there are some steps you should take to get ready for it. Most importantly, doing your research into reputable companies like Luxurgery is essential. Here is the patient checklist of do’s and don’ts before a plastic surgery:

1.Modify your diet

Once your surgery is scheduled, you will have to modify your diet starting a few weeks before the procedure. Stock up your kitchen with foods high in protein as well as nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables. High-fiber cereals, milk and fruit juice are also considered good enough. Drinking lots of water is also important as it keeps you hydrated. At the same time, you should be aware of certain foods that are to be avoided. These include foods high in salicylates, such as maize, avocados, broccoli, sweet potatoes, cucumber, almond oil, sesame oil, peanut oil, coffee and pistachio. Salicylates are the chemicals which act as blood thinner (they are also used in aspirin) and elevate the risk of bleeding during surgery. You should also reduce sodium intake to 1200-1500 mg daily a few weeks prior to the surgery.

2. Ditch smoking and drinking

Another important measure to stop smoking and drinking as soon as your surgical appointment is scheduled. This is the time when you need to get rid of the toxins in your body and tobacco and alcohol both have them in plenty. Certain forms of alcohol such as beer are also high in salicylates, a chemical that is prohibited for patients planning to take up plastic surgery.

3. Get a complete medical exam

Next on the pre-surgical checklist is to take a complete medical exam well in advance.
Plastic surgeons in Atlanta seek a complete overview with questions related to the patient’s medical history and prevailing health conditions. They also perform a physical examination and a complete blood work to assess the overall health status. As a patient, it is responsibility to disclose full information about past and current ailments as well as any chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. Also, inform about any prescription medications you are taking.

4.Be careful about the medications

The surgeon will recommend some presurgical medication to get your body set for the procedure. The medications chiefly include vitamin A, vitamin C and Bromelain. Though you may still continue your daily prescription medications, there are some drugs that you will have to discontinue. Doctors advice not to take vitamin E, anticoagulants, and blood-thinning medicines like aspirin. Those taking any herbal supplements should get them approved from the surgeon.

5.Relax and take good rest

Finally, it is important to be relaxed and take good rest prior to surgery as this will help you get amazing results. Meditation is a good idea as it calms your body and soul. You should take it up a few weeks before the procedure. Have at least 8 hours of sleep every night so that you are restful and relaxed on the d-day. Have your support system in place, with a friend or family member to accompany you for the surgery and take good care of you during the first few days. Plan a leave from work and someone to take care of your children, if you have any.

Being well-prepared for your plastic surgery means that half of the work is done. Be open and honest with your doctor so that you can ask the right questions and avail the best advice. Also, you must be very sure that you really are ready to take up the surgery and think that it is worth the effort.