Tips Before Plastic Surgery (Wash PS)
Making the decision to undergo plastic surgery often incites feelings of excitement about addressing a concern and enhancing your appearance.
But it’s also normal to be nervous about the process, especially what happens post-procedure. Fortunately, planning ahead can help alleviate any worry and prepare you for a smooth recovery.
In addition to providing explicit pre- and post-op instructions, we also recommend the following tips before plastic surgery.
Tips Before Plastic Surgery – 3 Weeks in Advance
If you are a smoker, you should quit at least 3 weeks before your procedure and forego cigarettes and nicotine products for 3 weeks after your procedure. Adhering to this recommendation will help promote proper wound healing and help avoid complications.
Now is also a good time to discontinue use of alcohol and avoid foods containing salicylates, which can both impact blood intra- and post-operatively.
If you haven’t done so already, it’s important to request time off from work for your recovery. The number of days that you will need to rest and heal can vary depending on your medical history and the type of surgery.
Tips Before Plastic Surgery – 1 Week in Advance
Getting Your Home Ready for Recovery
As your surgery day gets closer, you’ll want to begin making your home recovery-ready. This means prepping meals for yourself and/or family members and ensuring that you have a dining tray that will allow you to eat in bed or on the couch.
In addition to cooking, you should also take some time to complete any chores and cleaning that you will not be able to attend to during recovery.
The final, and probably most important tip, is creating a comfortable, cozy, and well-stocked spot, whether the couch, recliner, or bed, that has everything you may need post-procedure. Plenty of pillows, books, magazines, devices, and tv remotes will keep you entertained and relaxed during this time.
Arranging for Help
It’s also important to ask someone to pick you up from your procedure and stay with you for 48 hours after surgery. If you have children, you will also want to arrange for 7-10 days of childcare.
Fill Prescriptions
Filling prescriptions, such as antibiotics and pain medication, a week before surgery ensures that they will be ready and waiting for you post-operatively.
Suggestions for Patients from Out-Of-Town
Patients that are traveling from out-of-town should plan to stay in the area for 7-10 days, which will allow you time to rest and heal and attend follow-up appointments.
Recommended accommodations that are in close proximity to both of our offices include:
Hyatt Regency Hotel in Bethesda
One Bethesda Metro Center (7400 Wisconsin Ave)
Bethesda, Maryland, United States, 20814
+1 301 657 1234
Hyatt Regency Tysons Corner
7901 Tysons One Place
Tysons Corner, Virginia, United States, 22102
+1 703 893 1234
Dr. Singh and his team will also be available to answer questions or address any concerns that should arise before or after your surgery. Please do not hesitate to contact us!
