If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, there are many things to think about when it comes to preparation. You should be as prepared as possible, mentally and physically.
The process can start as early as the day you even consider the procedure. Any type of surgery requires certain steps to make sure your procedure goes as smoothly as possible. Before you have a breast augmentation, we highly recommend you take the time to prepare for your upcoming procedure, and for your recovery period.
When you prepare correctly, it not only benefits you and your overall health, but it also puts your mind at ease, and you’ll know you’re ready for both your surgery and your recovery process.
1. Mental Preparation
When deciding to get breast augmentation surgery, you not only have to prepare physically, but also mentally. Your mental preparation is especially important to help ease your mind and make sure you are completely ready to commit to the surgery.
First, schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During your appointment, the doctor will ask you what you want your breasts to look like, how the procedure will go, and the cost. It’s important you feel comfortable with your surgeon and your appointment is the perfect time to ask any questions you have about what to expect.
2. Physical Preparation
After you’ve done your research, made the decision, and scheduled the date of your breast augmentation surgery. The next step is to prepare yourself physically in the weeks before your procedure. The guidelines below will give you a general idea of what to expect, but don’t forget that surgery is different for every individual.
Above all, follow the instructions from your doctor.
1. Two Weeks Before Your Surgery
This time period is the best to take care of the following:
- Coordinate drop-off and pickup in advance. Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home from the clinic the day of your surgery.
- Blood work. You’ll also need to do blood work approximately two weeks before your surgery.
- Stop drinking alcohol, smoking, and taking Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and/or any herbal supplements. These activities act as blood thinners and can cause complications during surgery.
If you’re not sure what you can and can’t take, ask your surgeon for clarification.
2. One Week Before Your Surgery
A week before surgery, review the following:
- Purchase items like antibacterial soap, shirts that button in the front, comfortable pajamas, and low-sodium foods to decrease swelling and fluid retention.
- Double-check that you and anyone living with you are prepared for the recovery period.
3. The Night Before Your Surgery
The night before your augmentation surgery is extremely important
- Wash your hair and do a cleanse with antibacterial soap. The days following the surgery will make it difficult to shower comfortably, so get it in while you can.
- Don’t eat or drink anything during the eight (8) hours prior to the procedure. The anesthesia could make you sick and there shouldn’t be anything in your stomach.
- Get a good night’s sleep. Being well-rested will help you stay calm as well as start your recovery off on the right foot.
Dr. Richard Hess and Dr. Sven Sandeen are skilled board-certified Breast Augmentation plastic surgeons in Tucson, AZ.
The Hess & Sandeen Plastic Surgery team can help you love the way your body looks. We will help you be prepared for your procedure and know what to expect during every step of the process.