Plastic surgery is a life-changing
procedure that can improve your health, appearance, and self-confidence. Like
any surgical procedure, preparation is the key to ensuring you get the best
possible results and have the smoothest recovery that you can. Before your
procedure, your plastic
surgeon in Tucson will give you instructions to guide
you through the preparation process, and it’s important to follow those
closely. Failing to do so could lead to your surgery being postponed. In
addition to instructions that are specific to your needs, there are some
general steps that everyone should take in the weeks and days leading up to
plastic surgery. Get ready for a successful procedure with help from these
suggestions:
Take Advantage of Your Plastic Surgery Consultation
The consultation with your plastic surgeon
is a critical step in achieving the best results from your surgery. During this
initial meeting, you’ll have a chance to discuss the changes you want to make
to your body and to hear about different treatment options from your provider.
Don’t miss out on this important chance to get answers to your questions and to
come up with the best treatment plan for your needs. Although you may go into
this appointment with a clear idea of the kind of plastic surgery you want,
focus on discussing the results you want to achieve with your surgeon, and keep
an open mind about what he or she suggests. For example, you may think you want
breast implants, but your surgeon may recommend a lift procedure as the best
way to get the results you want. Use your consultation to determine which
procedures will help you make the changes you want, and be sure to also discuss
realistic results with your surgeon. If you have realistic expectations about
the results you can achieve through plastic surgery, you will be happier with
the entire process.
Tell Your Plastic Surgeon About Your Medical Conditions
It’s important for your plastic
surgeon to know about all of your medical conditions and the medications you
take before your surgery. Don’t assume that any condition or medication is
irrelevant to your procedure. Your surgeon needs to know this information to
determine if you are a good candidate for your procedure and to make a safe
plan for your anesthesia and post-surgical pain medication. If you take
medication for a chronic medical condition, such as insulin for diabetes, then
you will need to work with your plastic surgeon to determine how to manage your
medication on the day of your surgery. It may also be necessary to discontinue
some medication prior to your procedure for a period of time. Follow these
instructions carefully, so you don’t risk having to delay your surgery. If your
plastic surgeon requests lab work before your procedure, be sure to have it
done in a timely fashion.
Consider Quitting Smoking Before Your Surgery
Your plastic surgeon is likely to
ask you to quit smoking before your surgery, or at least to give up cigarettes
for a few days before your procedure. There are several good reasons for doing
so. Smoking increases the chances of having a bad reaction to anesthesia or
suffering other complications during surgery. It also slows your healing time
and increases the risk of post-surgical complications. Smoking can also
negatively impact the benefits you get from some plastic surgery procedures.
For example, if you have a facelift, smoking can speed up the aging process and
cause the appearance of new wrinkles, diminishing the impact of your plastic
surgery.
Make Plans for Post-Surgical HelpMake Plans for Post-Surgical Help
There is a good chance that you will
need assistance at home and with certain activities after your surgery. Make
plans for this kind of help before your procedure, so you will be able to
completely focus on your recovery. You may need help with cooking, cleaning,
and other household activities for a few days after your surgery. If you are on
pain medication, you will be unable to drive until its effects wear off. Follow
your plastic surgeon’s instructions carefully. If you’ve been advised to avoid
activities like exercise, reaching, or lifting, don’t do so until your surgeon
has told you it is okay.
At Perfection Plastic
Surgery and Skin Care, we’re committed to patient safety
and satisfaction. Our plastic surgeon in Tucson supports patients through every
step of their surgery journey, from consultation to recovery. If you want to
learn more about plastic surgery and see if you are a good candidate, call us
today at (520) 323-7100 to make an appointment.
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