INTRODUCTION
Appropriate preparation for plastic surgery is crucial for the safe procedure and successful recovery. A comprehensive checklist helps ensure that all aspects are addressed before surgery. Dr. Rami Alshekh provides detailed preparatory instructions for each patient.
4-6 WEEKS BEFORE THE TREATMENT
Consultation and research
During this period you should:
- •Make an appointment with a surgeon
- •Discuss the expectations and goals of the procedure
- •Complete all recommended medical tests
- •Provide a complete medical history
- •Disclose all medications and supplements you take
Lifestyle changes
Stopping smoking:
- •It is necessary to stop smoking at least 4 weeks before the procedure
- •Smoking increases the risk of complications and slows healing
- •A nicotine test may be required
2-4 WEEKS BEFORE THE TREATMENT
Medical preparation
During this period:
- •Stop taking blood thinning medications (aspirin, NSAIDs)
- •Avoid herbal supplements (gingko, ginseng, vitamin E)
- •Continue to take medicines prescribed by your doctor (after consultation)
- •Maintain a stable weight
- •Start a healthy diet rich in protein
Practical preparation
Plan:
- •Time for recovery (time off work if needed)
- •Help with everyday duties
- •Transport to and from hospital
- •Taking care of children or animals
ONE WEEK BEFORE THE TREATMENT
Final medical preparations
In the last week:
- •Avoid alcohol
- •Avoid the sun and tanning beds
- •Avoid hair removal in the treatment area
- •Continue a healthy diet
- •Ensure adequate hydration
Shopping and preparing your home
Prepare:
- •Post-operative clothing (loose clothing, non-underwired bra for breast surgery)
- •Support pillows (for comfortable sleeping)
- •Wound care preparations (as recommended)
- •Painkillers (if prescribed)
- •Food supplies for several days
- •All the things you need at your fingertips
THE DAY BEFORE THE TREATMENT
On the day before the procedure:
- •Prepare all documents (ID, test results)
- •Pack a bag for your hospital stay (if required)
- •Prepare comfortable clothes for the day of the procedure
- •Eat a light meal in the evening (if advised)
- •Avoid stress and get a good night's sleep
- •Make sure you have your transportation organized
ON THE DAY OF THE TREATMENT
Before leaving the house
Before leaving home:
- •Do not eat or drink (as per anesthesia instructions)
- •Take a shower and wash with antibacterial soap (if recommended)
- •Do not apply makeup, nail polish or jewelry
- •Wear comfortable, loose clothing
- •Take all documents
- •Take a companion
In the hospital
After arriving at the hospital:
- •Register according to the instructions
- •Complete all documents
- •Meet with the surgeon and anesthesiologist
- •Ask all the questions you have
- •Relax and trust the medical team
CHECKLIST - SUMMARY
Medical preparation
- •✓ All tests performed
- •✓ Stopping smoking (minimum 4 weeks)
- •✓ Stopping blood thinning medications
- •✓ Avoiding herbal supplements
- •✓ Disclosure of full medical history
Practical preparation
- •✓ Scheduled time for recovery
- •✓ Organized help with everyday duties
- •✓ Prepared transport
- •✓ Purchased post-operative clothing
- •✓ A prepared place to rest at home
On the day of the procedure
- •✓ Follow instructions on eating and drinking
- •✓ Shower with antibacterial soap
- •✓ Comfortable clothes
- •✓ All documents
- •✓ Accompanying person
WHAT NOT TO DO BEFORE THE TREATMENT
Avoid before treatment:
- •Smoking cigarettes
- •Taking blood thinners without consulting them
- •Sun and solarium
- •Alcohol
- •Stress and anxiety (if possible)
- •Changes in diet a few days before the procedure
QUESTIONS FOR THE SURGEON
Before the procedure, make sure you know the answers to:
- •When exactly should I stop eating and drinking?
- •Which medications can I continue and which do I need to stop?
- •What should I take with me to the hospital?
- •How long will I have to stay in hospital?
- •When can I go home?
- •What are the first steps after the procedure?
RELATED TREATMENTS
If you are considering plastic surgery, you may be interested in:breast enlargement,breast liftorabdominoplasty. You will find more information about preparation during your consultation.
SUMMARY
Appropriate preparation for plastic surgery is crucial for the safe procedure and successful recovery. A comprehensive checklist helps ensure that all aspects are covered.
Dr. Rami Alshekh provides detailed preparatory instructions for each patient. If you have any questions about preparing for the procedure, schedule a consultation or contact us.