|
|
 |
General Preparations for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
As a patient there are several things you can do prior to any aesthetic plastic surgery, to improve the results:
- Stop taking any medication containing ASA or aspirin at least one month before surgery. These medications interfere with blood clotting, increasing the risk of bruising and excessive bleeding. They are present in many cold and headache remedies. Also avoid anti-arthritis medications such as Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, etc.), herbal products and high dose vitamins, as all of these can cause bleeding.
- Drink alcohol in moderation only. Avoid alcohol completely for 24 hours before surgery
and while taking any medication after surgery.
- Stop smoking. Smoking interferes with the circulation to the skin. It increases the risk
of wound healing problems and loss of undermined skin. If you are having a general
anesthetic, smoking increases the risk of pneumonia afterwards. Even if you stop smoking
just before surgery it helps, but ideally stop at least two weeks ahead.
- Stabilize blood pressure, diabetes and other chronic medical problems. If you have any
medical condition, are taking any tablets or medication or have any allergies, make sure
your plastic surgeon knows. Ensure that any medical problem is in good control.
- Stabilize your weight and achieve any planned weight loss prior to surgery. Generally
the risk of complications is higher and results are poorer if you are obese.
 Next topic: Risks of Surgery
|
|
|
