Be prepared – tips to help your surgery and recovery go smoothly

Whether you’re having breast implants, a tummy tuck or a facelift, the weeks leading up to your plastic surgery treatment can involve mixed emotions.

While we hope you feel hugely excited about the prospect of changing your appearance, don’t be surprised if you also feel a little anxious, especially as the day of surgery draws near.

When you attend your appointments to plan your surgery we will cover everything you need to know about preparing for successful treatment and for a smooth recovery. The more you know, the less worried you will feel and the more you can look forward to creating your new look.

While each patient requires tailored advice and guidance, there are some general tips which apply to everyone. In this article, we help you think about emotional, physical and practical preparation in the lead up to surgery.

Preparing yourself physically

If you need to undertake any particular physical preparation before your treatment we will make you aware well in advance. However, for most patients our advice is to try to be as fit and healthy as you can be before your surgery date, especially if you’re having a general anaesthetic. This doesn’t mean a dramatic change to your lifestyle, just moderate exercise and a healthy diet.

If you’re having facial surgery such as a face lift make sure you look after your skin, keeping yourself well hydrated and using a good quality moisturiser as these will help to keep your skin in good condition, aiding recovery and helping to limit scarring.

Preparing yourself emotionally

Even if you’ve been considering surgery for a long time and are really looking forward to your results, it’s perfectly normal to feel anxious or worried. You may feel concerned about what you’ll look like after surgery, or have worries about the recovery process. While we will provide all the information you need to set your mind at rest during your pre-op consultations, you will also be able to contact us by telephone to ask any question that may arise before your surgery date.

Another way to prepare yourself emotionally is to enlist the support of your friends and family so that they can be there for you providing support throughout your plastic surgery journey.

As well as emotional support, you should ask friends and family to help out while you recover, particularly if you’ve had surgery which demands that you rest for a few days afterwards. You don’t want to have to worry about the shopping, laundry or the cleaning or other day-to-day tasks in the immediate aftermath of surgery, so don’t be afraid to ask for help – you can always return the favour in future.

Practical tips

In the weeks leading up to your surgery, cut out smoking (especially if you’re undergoing a breast lift, tummy tuck or facelift) and go stead on the alcohol.
On the day of surgery, don’t have anything to eat for at least six hours before you are due to undergo your procedure. We will be able to give you more accurate information on timing nearer to your surgery date.
You’ll need to remove all make-up and jewellery. Think about your clothes and make sure you wear something comfortable to come into and leave hospital. Also, remember your toiletries as it’s likely you’ll want a bath or shower and to wash your hair after surgery.