If you are planning on having cosmetic surgery soon and want to be as prepared as possible, it is important to keep in mind all of the things you need to do. Preparing for surgery isn’t just about the night before, there are a lot of ways you can get your body ready weeks before. If you are having a non-invasive procedure done, such as botox or dermal fillers, these tips are of less concern because you won’t be under any anesthesia. However, if you are having a more invasive surgery like a rhinoplasty or liposuction, you are going to want to keep the following tips in mind.
Stop Smoking
One of the best ways to prepare for cosmetic surgery is to stop smoking. In preparation for any surgery, stopping smoking will reduce the risks of something going wrong during the procedure. Nicotine restricts blood flow and also keeps oxygen from getting to the cells. This can lead to complications under regular circumstances, but the risk is significantly worse when you are having surgery. Even a patient who smokes just once before surgery increases their risk of complications.
These complications include heart attack, stroke, tissue necrosis, slow wound healing, anesthesia-related issues, and extensive scarring. The best way to ensure that these complications do not arise is to stop smoking at least six weeks prior to the operation and stay away from nicotine products until you are fully healed.
Stop Drinking Alcohol
While alcohol doesn’t pose as large of a threat as smoking does, it can still contribute to many complications. Alcohol is a blood thinner, and it can increase the possibility of excessive bleeding during your procedure. In the same way, it can also slow your body’s natural healing abilities. Due to this, it is safer to stop drinking at least two weeks before your surgery.
Reduce Your Caffeine
Many Americans depend on coffee daily, however, while it is seen as socially acceptable, caffeine is still a drug and it can have serious effects on the body. When patients have high levels of caffeine in their bloodstream, it can cause complications in surgery. Unlike cigarettes and alcohol, small amounts of caffeine can actually help patients with their recovery. However, if your caffeine intake exceeds two cups a day, you may want to cut back for at least the week before your surgery. After your surgery, you should continue to limit your caffeine intake to no more than two cups a day throughout the week.
Double Check Vitamin and Supplement Intake
Many people don’t realize this, but there are a lot of vitamins and supplements that can actually make surgery riskier. Some of these substances can cause negative reactions when taken before surgery. If your surgery requires anesthesia you should avoid certain supplements as well as foods that are high in them.
You should stop taking Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, B vitamins, Fish oils, and all herbal supplements at least one week before your surgery. This includes any multivitamin you might take. Vitamins and supplements promote health, however, their potential reactions during surgery mean it is very important to skip them before going under the knife. Your body won’t suffer too much from this week or so without vitamins.
Meet the Author
Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beach goer operating out of Southern New Jersey.
