How to Prepare for Plastic Surgery
Quick Answer
To prepare for plastic surgery, complete all medical tests, tell your surgeon about every medicine and supplement, stop smoking as advised, arrange help at home for recovery, prepare your home in advance and follow fasting instructions exactly.
Good preparation makes surgery safer and recovery smoother. The weeks before your operation matter as much as the day itself. Always follow your own surgeon's instructions first, and use this checklist to make sure nothing is missed.
4 to 6 Weeks Before Surgery
- Complete every blood test, scan or medical check your surgeon requests
- Give a full list of medicines, supplements, herbal products and any allergies
- Stop smoking and all nicotine as advised, because nicotine slows healing and raises complication risk
- Aim for a stable, healthy weight and avoid crash diets
- Ask about which products to avoid, such as blood-thinning medicines, aspirin or certain supplements, and follow your surgeon's advice exactly
1 to 2 Weeks Before
- Confirm your date, arrival time and fasting instructions
- Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours
- Arrange time off work and help with children or pets
- Book any recommended follow-up or lymphatic drainage sessions
- Avoid alcohol as advised
Preparing Your Home
- Change your bed linen and set up extra pillows for sleeping in a raised position
- Stock soft, nutritious food and plenty of water
- Keep medicines, compression garments and dressings within easy reach
- Buy loose, front-opening clothing that is easy to put on
- Keep entertainment and phone chargers by your bed
The Day Before and the Day Of
Follow fasting instructions exactly, since eating or drinking when you should not can cancel surgery. Shower with any recommended wash and remove make-up, nail polish and jewellery. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring your ID and any documents requested.
Preparing Mentally
Recovery can include swelling, bruising and low moods, even when everything goes well. Knowing this in advance helps you stay patient. Remember that final results take weeks to months to appear.
Ask These Questions Before Surgery
- What will recovery look like week by week?
- When can I return to work, driving and exercise?
- What symptoms should make me call you immediately?
- Who do I contact after hours?
Our team at First Class Clinic gives every surgical patient written pre-operative instructions and is available for questions throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I really need to stop smoking?
Yes. Nicotine reduces blood flow and raises the risk of poor healing.
Q: Can I take my regular medicines?
Ask your surgeon; some need to continue, others must stop.
Q: How much help will I need at home?
Most people need help for the first few days, longer after larger operations.
Q: Can I drive myself home?
No. After anaesthesia or sedation you must not drive.
Q: When should I stop eating and drinking?
Follow the exact fasting instructions from your surgical team.
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