Preparing for your cosmetic procedure is one of the most important steps to a successful outcome. Choosing to undergo plastic surgery is an extremely personal decision that requires a lot of foresight and preparation. You decided that the possible outcome outweighs the risks and complications, as well as the time spent in recovery. As a result, you should do everything in your power prior to the procedure to prepare. In your initial consultation, your plastic surgeon will provide some guidelines as to the best ways to get ready for cosmetic surgery in NJ. You should follow all of the advice your surgeon provides. Additionally, learn as much as you can about your future procedure. Armed with this information, you will have peace of mind prior to your surgery and feel comfortable knowing you made the best medical decision for you.
Try the following five steps for a successful outcome.
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Step #1: Mentally prepare for your procedure.
First things first, you should have a good mental attitude and realistic expectations for your procedure. In short, it makes big difference both before and after surgery. When you approach your surgery with the right mindset, the entire process is bound to go much smoother.
- Your mental health should be stable. Patients with any of the following could experience some worsening of symptoms. If you suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and other mental issues, the medications and the stress associated with surgery can prove problematic. Surgery is not recommended during times of high stress, such as divorce, death, and when dealing with other stressful social and psychological issues.
- Have a calm perspective. Patience is key. Remember that this is elective surgery. We are dealing with skin and tissue movement. Millions of people undergo plastic surgery every day with easy recoveries and excellent results. Do not overthink the potential complications. Stay positive.
- Do your homework. Make sure your plastic surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and view many (not one or two) before-and-after pictures of his or her work.
Try to remember that plastic surgery is well worth the investment and recovery process. Before you know it, you will be feeling great and looking your best. Results are natural and often life-changing. Patients who are positive typically have excellent outcomes.
Step #2: Maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Starting two to four weeks before surgery, maintain a healthy diet and weight. Aggressive dieting before surgery is not advised. Thus, good nutrition and stable weight is important for proper healing. Getting on a scale before and after surgery will not help you recover. Additionally, exercise of any kind is fine before surgery. However, we should mention that it is not proven to help recovery or results.
You should also monitor your use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco. All of these products can hinder or prolong your recovery. In short, the detrimental effects that these products have can ruin the end results of your procedure. Speak to your doctor about how they could affect your results and how to manage these habits, if necessary.
Finally, rest is very important before your procedure. Get restful sleep before surgery. Additionally, you should not expect restful sleep for a few days after surgery. This occurs due to discomfort, and the need to follow your surgeon’s instructions and sleep in atypical positions. Pain pills may not have any effect on sleep. Patients tend to feel worse when they are tired.
Step #3: Manage your medications the right way.
It will be important to discuss your medical history and all of the medications you are currently taking with your surgeon prior to your surgery. In the weeks leading up to your procedure, you may need to alter which medications you are taking, how much, and when you can take them. Talk to your doctor for more specific information about your unique medications. For example, common pain medication, such as Advil, can thin your blood. You should avoid taking these medications as early as two weeks before your procedure. Additionally, non-essential herbal supplements should be stopped, as well, because some of them can have negative effects on your recovery.
Speak to your doctor about which antibiotics and supplements are fine to take before and after your procedure.
Step #4: Preoperative testing might be necessary.
Before undergoing plastic surgery, some preoperative testing might be necessary. Your plastic surgeon will explain which tests are necessary and why. Some examples of possible preoperative testing include the following.
- Bloodwork
- Mammograms for all breast surgery patients
- EKGs for patients with any preexisting heart conditions
- Medical or clearances for patients with medical problems
These tests may vary based on your surgeon’s preferences. Make sure to ask him or her if any of the abovementioned is necessary prior to your procedure.
Step #5: Make postoperative preparations.
To have the smoothest recovery possible, make early arrangements for after your procedure. You should schedule for a friend or family member to drive you to and from the procedure. You should also arrange for any necessary help with child care, meals, and transportation. Second, you should plan for time off of work. Depending on your procedure, you may need more or less time to rest and recovery. Plan for at least 1-2 weeks. Finally, you are not going to be able to run errands after surgery. Before your procedure, purchase gauze, antibiotic ointments, OTC pain medications, and anything else that your doctor has approved and deemed necessary.
Dr. Anthony Berlet Performs Top Cosmetic Surgery in NJ
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon in New Jersey is so important to achieving a successful outcome for your procedure. You should choose a doctor who communicates clearly and sets your mind at ease prior to your procedure. You should also look for someone with experience in the procedure you want to have. Dr. Berlet is a top plastic surgeon in northern NJ dedicated to helping patients achieve their cosmetic goals. With over 20 years of experience in serving this community, Dr. Berlet is well-equipped to assess your unique condition, recommend the best procedures for you, and ensure a safe and speedy recovery. To learn more about how Dr. Berlet and his team of qualified care experts can help you, reach out to the practice today!