Pre-op
If you are preparing for plastic surgery, understanding preoperative guidelines is essential for a safe procedure and satisfactory results.
Here, we will cover everything you need to know about preparing for surgery, from dietary considerations to preparation for the day of surgery.
Dietary considerations
During the preoperative period, it is crucial to follow the dietary guidelines recommended by your surgeon to ensure that your body is in optimal condition for the procedure.
- Fasting: You will need to follow a strict fasting regimen before surgery, usually for 8 to 12 hours. This means you cannot eat or drink anything during this period. Fasting is crucial to prevent complications during anesthesia.
- Healthy eating: In the days leading up to the surgery, maintain a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. This will help your body recover more quickly.
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated in the days leading up to the surgery, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Medicinal and physical
Following your doctor’s instructions regarding physical preparation and medication use is essential to avoid complications.
- Medication: Your doctor may advise you to discontinue the use of certain medications before surgery, such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or anticoagulants. Always follow your doctor’s instructions closely.
- Physical exercise: Depending on the procedure, it may be advisable to avoid intense physical exercise a few days before surgery to prevent excessive stress on the body.
- Quitting Smoking: If you smoke, it is highly recommended to quit at least 4 weeks before surgery, as smoking can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
On the day of your surgery
It’s important to follow the guidelines below to ensure everything goes smoothly on the day of your procedure:
- Choose comfortable clothing: Wear loose-fitting and easy-to-wear outfits, such as sweatsuits and slip-on shoes. Clothes with zippers or buttons are ideal if your surgery involves the upper body.
- Avoid makeup, jewelry, and hair products: On the day of surgery, do not wear makeup, jewelry, or bring valuables. It is recommended to remove any piercings, earrings, or metal accessories before the procedure. If this is not possible, discuss it with your surgeon. Additionally, avoid wigs, hairpieces, hairspray, clips, pins, or headbands.
- Remove artificial nails: Remove artificial nails, tips, or any other nail accessories from at least one finger, preferably the index or middle finger. This will allow the anesthesiologist to accurately monitor your oxygen levels during surgery.
- Bring your pain medication: If you are already using pain medication, bring it with you on the day of surgery so that the medical team can verify and administer it as needed.
- Change into surgical gown: Before the procedure, you will be instructed to change into a specific hospital gown. The surgeon will mark the surgical site, and the anesthesiologist will discuss the anesthesia process, giving you the opportunity to clarify any last-minute questions.
Medicinal and physical
- IV Insertion: An intravenous (IV) line will be inserted into your hand or forearm in the pre-op area for the administration of medications and fluids during the surgery.
- Operating room preparation: Once in the operating room, you will be positioned on the surgical table, and the medical team will begin monitoring your vital signs. Medications will be administered to help you relax and feel comfortable.
- Monitors and equipment: Various devices will be applied to your body to monitor your condition during surgery, such as a blood pressure cuff, pulse oximeter, and cardiac monitoring electrodes.
- Induction to sleep: You will be comfortably and safely put to sleep. If a breathing tube is required, it will be inserted after you are asleep and removed before you wake up.
- Recovery room: After the surgery, you will be transferred to the recovery room, where you will stay for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. Most patients regain consciousness within 15 to 60 minutes but may not remember much due to the effects of the anesthetics.
- Discharge instructions: Both you and the responsible person accompanying you will receive detailed instructions for post-operative care, including medications, dressings, and scheduling follow-up appointments.
Pre-Surgery Information
Hi, this is the Coordination Team at Smart Plastic Surgery. We’re reaching out because you are scheduled for surgery, and there is important information you need to review before your procedure date.
Please make sure you have all lab results from your ordered labs completed and submitted to us in advance.
If You’re Undergoing a Breast Procedure
You must complete one of the following imaging studies based on your age:
- Under 40 years old: Breast ultrasound required
- 40 or older: Mammogram required
In addition, a chest X-ray is required if you:
- Are older than 40, or
- Have asthma
Other Important Requirements
Your medical clearance must state “Low Risk” and include a medical stamp.
General Requirements
- EKG (electrocardiogram) is required for all patients.
- Hemoglobin must be at 12.0 or above. (Very important.)
- A Cell Saver machine may be required for your procedure (cost: $550).
A1C Requirements
Your required A1C level depends on the procedure you are scheduled for:
| Procedure | Maximum A1C |
|---|---|
| Breast or Tummy Tuck | 5.7% |
| Lipo or BBL | 6.0% |
| Combo Procedures | 5.7% |
BMI Requirements
We require your correct, current weight and height to calculate BMI. Maximum BMI varies by procedure:
| Procedure | Maximum BMI |
|---|---|
| Lipo or BBL | 39 |
| Breast or Tummy Tuck | 36 |
| Combo Procedures | 36 |
Questions? Contact our Coordination Team before your scheduled date so we can help you complete every requirement on time.