Preparing for Plastic Surgery

We follow a philosophy of care that emphasizes quality of life. This means that we strive to maintain your quality of life before and after surgery. We remind our plastic surgery patients that you are choosing to have an elective procedure to improve quality of life rather than having a surgery to treat an illness.

What to Expect and How to Prepare

Unlike traditional surgery, patients getting plastic surgery are doing so electively and are generally in good overall health. So, when preparing for plastic surgery, we want you to maintain your daily rhythms such as bathing, exercising, and eating routines prior to your surgical procedure. And, while there will be a recovery time after your surgical procedure, the discomfort you may feel after surgery is not the same as being ill with a disease. Our cosmetic plastic surgery patients are generally in good health before and after surgery. Most discomfort that you may experience after an elective procedure is usually anticipated such as inflammation, bruising, and/or soreness and is not the same as being ill. Adverse events after surgery can happen but, are usually rare. Signs and symptoms of adverse events will be discussed together with your nurse and Dr. Durkin so that you feel knowledgeable and well prepared for surgery. We want you to maintain your daily rhythms such as your bathing, exercising, and eating routines prior to your surgical procedure.

Sample of Preoperative Instructions

You have an active role in your surgical outcomes and that means preparing for plastic surgery is an important factor in your outcome. Following Dr. Durkin’s instructions, keeping your pre and post operative appointments, and following a healthy lifestyle will have an impact on your recovery time and surgical outcomes. The information herein is to be used as a reference guide to following while preparing for plastic surgery with Dr. Durkin. If you choose to become one of Dr. Durkin’s plastic surgery patients, know that you will be receiving comprehensive instructions in person at your scheduled preopertaive appointment in our office. The instructions found on this webpage are to be used only as a general guide as each patient and surgery are unique and changes to these instructions may be made that pertain only to you.

Cleansing

The night before surgery, shower with an antibacterial soap.

Oral Hygiene

You may brush your teeth but do not swallow the water.

Make-Up

Do not wear make-up, moisturizers, deodorant, creams, or any lotion when you come in for surgery.

Clothing

Wear only comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that does not go over your head.

Eating and Drinking

Do not eat or drink anything after 12:00 midnight. This includes water.

Smoking Cessation

If you smoke, please discuss with Dr. Durkin so that he may give you specific smoking cessation instructions. Smoking reduces circulation to the skin and impedes healing.

Do Not Take Aspirin Or Ibuprofen

Stop taking medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen. Review the list of drugs containing aspirin and ibuprofen carefully. Such drugs can cause bleeding problems during and after surgery. Instead, use medications containing acetaminophen (such as Tylenol). You will also be given a list of medications to avoid before and after surgery.

Herbal Or Natural Products

Dr. Durkin believes in a comprehensive approach to healthcare and he may provide you with vitamins and/or herbal supplementation before or after surgery. However, herbal products can interfere with other medications. So, if you are on any natural products, please discuss with Dr. Durkin or his nurses prior to your surgery so that appropriate adjustments and/or restrictions may be taken.

Additional Plastic Surgery Information

When preparing for plastic surgery at Ocean Drive, you will also be given a surgical packet containing information about your surgical procedure. Within this packet you will have medical consents, and pre- and post-operative instructions.

Please read over your surgical consents and prepare any questions that you have about your surgery. Your nurse will walk you through your paperwork during your preoperative appointment and that will be a good time to ask your questions.

Remember, keep you postoperative appointments as your follow-up care is an important part in optimizing your surgical outcome. If you’d like to learn more about preparing for plastic surgery, read about what to expect on your surgery day.