preparation for cosmetic surgery - do's and don'ts
- Do not have anything to eat or drink at least 6 hours prior to your surgery.
- Stop smoking at least 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery. This is particularly important for patients undergoing Breast Reduction, Tummy tuck or Facelift surgery.
- Stop Alcohol 1 week prior to surgery.
- Avoid the following oral preparations at least 2 weeks prior to and 2 weeks after surgery:
Any mixture containing:
Vitamin E
Effamol G
Evening Primrose Oil
Salmon Oil
Codliver Oil
Ginseng
Imedeen
Garlic
Antiinflammatory medications:
Piroxicam
Indocid
Nurofen
Ibuprofen
Surgam
Voltarol
Naproxen
Froben
Lederfen
Anticoagulants (medications to thin your blood)
Aspirin/salicylates:
Anadin
Disprin
Codis
Or any cold or Flu medication i.e Lemsip etc. - Do not wear any eye or face makeup on the day of surgery as this interferes with the surgery.
Do:
- Do take paracetamol if experiencing any pains or discomfort for any reason prior to surgery.
- Do take any regular medication (i.e. blood pressure tablets) prior to and up to the day of surgery- you can use up to 20-30mls of water to help swallow any tablets even within the 6 hour pre operative fasting period mentioned above in the Dont's
- Do Take Arnica tablets
Arnica is a herbal remedy that has gained a considerable reputation in recent years in helping to decrease bruising and swelling and to promote healing after surgery and trauma. It is now used routinely in many branches of surgery and I recommend it for all patients. It is available from larger pharmacies and health food shops without prescription. - Do shower or bath on the morning or evening prior to surgery, cleansing your entire body.
- On the day of surgery please remove any contact lenses, nail polish, jewellery and all makeup whilst at home. Do wear comfortable, front opening, and loose clothing to the hospital.