Are you preparing for breast augmentation surgery? If you had your initial consultation but still have some lingering questions, doing a little bit of research can help. In anticipation of your procedure, your doctor should inform you of best practices for breast augmentation patients. It’s always important to follow your doctor’s instructions. Below is an outline of everything that you can expect in the weeks and days before breast augmentation. After you review this information, make sure to take any other questions you have to your medical team. They will ensure you know how to prepare for breast augmentation and set your mind at ease.
Breast augmentation preparation timeline
As mentioned, your doctor will make specific recommendations as to the best ways to prepare for breast augmentation surgery. The advice provided below outlines the timeline that you should follow when implementing best practices before your procedure.
Two weeks before the procedure
Early preparation is crucial so that you can focus on the most important part of your procedure: recovery. Spend the two weeks before your procedure getting all of the details of the day of your procedure and post-procedure care in order. You should plan for a friend or family member to drive you to and from the facility on the day of your breast augmentation. You should also plan to have someone help you with basic daily tasks in the first 24-48 hours post-op. Also consider getting some help with child or pet care, if necessary.
You should also make the following temporary changes or preparations.
- Stop smoking and recreational drugs. Smoking cigarettes and taking recreational drugs inhibit the body’s natural ability to heal itself. This can increase the risk of post-operative complications.
- Stop drinking alcohol. Alcohol thins the blood in the body. This makes it much easier to bruise and much harder to fully heal.
- Avoid ibuprofen or Aspirin. These medicines interfere with the body’s natural ability to clot blood. Acetaminophen (including brand names such as Tylenol) is a better choice during this time period.
- Avoid some herbal supplements. Some herbal supplements do not interact well with anesthesia. Avoid taking Ginkgo Biloba, St. John’s Wort and green tea extract prior to your procedure.
One week before the procedure
There are a few items that will be necessary to have on hand post-procedure. While you are recovering, going to the store and searching for these items can be a hassle. Instead, one week before your breast augmentation, make sure you have the following on hand.
- Antibacterial soap
- Shirts that button up (instead of pulling over your head)
- Low-sodium foods (Sodium helps the body retain fluid, which can cause swelling.)
- A comfortable bra (Your doctor will likely recommend a certain bra type or brand to use post-surgery.)
- Ice packs
- Cleansing wipes. (You may not be able to shower for a few days post-procedure due to your stitches.)
Your doctor may also request a blood test before your procedure to ensure everything related to your health is normal.
The day before the procedure
The day before your breast augmentation is all about final preparations. Make sure your home is clean and comfortable and the things you need to recover are organized and easily accessible. Your home should be stocked with the right soaps, clothes, food, and entertainment. This is because your doctor will likely recommend you stay home and rest for a few days post-procedure.
You should also follow any specific directions your doctor gave you. Specifically, you should not eat or drink anything within eight hours of your surgery. This does include sipping water and chewing gum. Nothing can be in your system when you undergo anesthesia. If you do consume anything within eight hours, your doctor may have to cancel your procedure for your safety.
The day of the procedure
On the day of the procedure, you will arrive at the facility and complete any necessary paperwork. Please note that you should not wear any jewelry, makeup or tight-fitting clothing. Instead, please wear loose clothing. Make it easier for yourself and wear a shirt that zips up the front. The medical team will then bring you back to prepare for the procedure and administer anesthesia.
Preparing for breast augmentation with a top NJ plastic surgeon
When you are preparing for breast augmentation surgery, make sure you to learn as much as you can beforehand to put your mind at ease. This online information can be very useful and speaking to your doctor and his or her medical team about your lingering questions is important. You want to be as comfortable as possible with your decision and with your doctor before undergoing this big change.
Dr. Anthony Berlet has been serving plastic surgery patients in the northern New Jersey and New York City areas for over 20 years. Along with this team of experienced medical professionals, he helped hundreds of patients achieve their goals and improve their self-esteem. If you are considering breast augmentation surgery and want to learn more about how to prepare, our team can help! Reach out to us today to learn more.