8 Things to Do and Avoid Before Cosmetic Surgery

Deciding to have plastic surgery is about much more than choosing how you want to look. The preparations you make before the operation are essential for planning the surgery safely and managing your recovery.

So what should you pay attention to before cosmetic surgery, also known as plastic surgery? Which habits should you reconsider, which tests should you have, and how should you prepare for the day of your operation? As the MediFinder team, we have put together the key points you need to know before surgery.

1. Tell Your Doctor About Your Medications and Supplements

Your surgeon and anesthesia team need to know about any medications you take regularly before surgery. Blood thinners, certain painkillers and herbal supplements in particular can affect the risk of bleeding during surgery or the anesthesia process.

For this reason, give a complete list of your prescription medications, vitamins and herbal products. Do not stop any medication or change its dose without consulting your doctor. Stopping some medications can be riskier than continuing to take them.

2. Reconsider Smoking and Nicotine Use

Cigarettes and other nicotine products can reduce the oxygen reaching your tissues and impair wound healing. This may also increase the risk of complications, especially in cosmetic procedures where tissue healing is critical.

Your surgeon may ask you to avoid nicotine for a certain period before and after surgery. How long you need to stop can vary depending on the operation and your health. You can talk to your doctor to create a personal plan.

3. Complete the Necessary Tests and Examinations

Some tests are required before cosmetic surgery to assess your health. Depending on your age, medical history and the planned operation, these may include blood tests, a heart evaluation when needed, or other investigations. You should also be sure to tell your healthcare team about any chronic conditions, allergies, previous surgeries and past experiences with anesthesia.

4. Follow Your Pre-Surgery Fasting Instructions Carefully

For operations performed under anesthesia, what and when you eat and drink is an important part of preparation. When you need to stop eating and drinking before surgery is determined by the type of anesthesia and your individual health.

That is why it is important to follow the instructions given by your anesthesia team rather than general timeframes you find online. Not following these instructions can lead to your surgery being postponed or increase the risks during anesthesia.

5. Watch Your Alcohol Intake and Diet

Eating a sufficient, balanced diet in the period before surgery helps your body get the nutrients it needs to heal. It is important to avoid overly restrictive diets and to get enough protein. Alcohol can also interact with certain medications and affect the surgical process, so follow your surgeon's advice on alcohol use. You can ask your healthcare team whether you need a special nutrition plan.

6. Clarify Your Expectations from Surgery

• Preparing for plastic surgery is not just physical. Understanding what you expect from the operation is also important.
• When you meet your doctor, talk openly about the changes you want, the things that bother you and the possible results.
• Especially for procedures that change your facial appearance, such as rhinoplasty, keep in mind that it may not be possible to replicate someone else's look exactly.
• Do not make a decision without understanding the limits, risks, possible complications and recovery process of the surgery.

For more information on rhinoplasty techniques, see our article Open or Closed? 5 Key Differences Between Rhinoplasty Techniques.

7. Plan Ahead for Your Recovery

In the first few days after surgery, you may need to rest and get help with daily tasks. So before your operation, it can help to organize what you need at home, plan around your work or school schedule and, if needed, arrange for a relative or friend to help you. You may need to arrange for someone to accompany you home safely, especially after general anesthesia or sedation.

Remember that recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery.

If you are also researching nose surgery, our guide 7 Things to Keep in Mind During Recovery After Rhinoplasty gives an overview of the process.

8. Research the Surgeon's Expertise and the Clinic's Facilities

One of the most important things to consider before cosmetic surgery is the competence of the doctor who will perform the procedure. You can look into the surgeon's specialty, professional credentials and experience with the planned operation, and also find out whether the facility where the surgery will take place is properly equipped and how possible complications will be handled.

Rather than basing your decision solely on social media posts, patient photos or prices, prioritize reliable and verifiable information.

What tests are done before cosmetic surgery?

The tests required depend on the type of surgery, your medical history and the anesthesia plan. Not every patient needs the same tests.

Should I quit smoking before cosmetic surgery?

Smoking and nicotine use can impair wound healing. Your surgeon may recommend that you avoid nicotine before and after surgery.

Should I stop taking my medications before cosmetic surgery?

Some medications may need to be adjusted, but this decision should be made by your doctor. Do not stop taking your prescription medications on your own.

What should I bring with me on the day of cosmetic surgery?

Bring your ID and any necessary medical documents. Pack the personal items recommended by the healthcare facility and, if needed, arrange for someone to accompany you for transport.

Sources

• American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) — Preparing for Your Surgery
• American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) — Preparing for Surgery
• World Health Organization (WHO) — Smoking and Surgical Complications

If you are still deciding where to have your procedure, read Best Countries for Plastic Surgery.