Like all types of surgery, optimum outcomes will most likely be achieved with careful planning and thorough preparation. Whether it’s a tummy tuck or breast augmentation with implants you’re about to have here at our Union Square plastic surgery practice, we encourage you to take each single step below as part of your preparation weeks and months before the procedure.

Have a thorough consultation with your plastic surgeon.

Despite the vast information available online about plastic surgery, each procedure is different for each person — from how to prepare for it to length of recovery times. Thus, it is best to ask questions that are specific to your cosmetic goals, preferences, and lifestyle.

In addition, it pays to be honest during the consultation. Take your smoking habits for example. Smoking can significantly delay healing and increase your risk of infection post-surgery due to its constricting effects on your blood vessels. While it may sound embarrassing at first to reveal certain habits or lifestyle factors to Dr. Mosser, keep in mind that it’s actually for your benefit. 

Moreover, it is important to disclose to Dr. Mosser if you’re taking certain medications or supplements before your surgery. Aspirin, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and herbal supplements such as echinacea and gingko biloba may increase your chances of bleeding during and after surgery.

Lead a healthy lifestyle.

So what exactly does a healthy lifestyle entail? Does it have to do with choosing the low-fat cereal or sugar-free soda the next time you do your grocery? By and large, there’s actually more to those things when one wants to pursue a healthy lifestyle. 

What we often share to our patients are the following trio of factors that make up a healthy lifestyle: eating real (minimally-processed) food in moderate proportions, incorporation of physical activity or certain movements to your daily routine, and getting enough amount of sleep.

Eating real food means consuming a lot of whole grains, vegetables, fish, and lean meat. Emphasis is placed on increasing your protein intake as it is vital during healing and repair following surgery. You can also ask your doctor about taking supplements. In addition, sufficient hydration is also important.

As to exercise and physical activity, we recommend doing a combination of cardio and strength training exercises at least twice or thrice a week. 

Lastly, sleep is when your body recovers the most, priming you to operate at your optimum the next day. Find ways to get enough amount of sleep (most people would feel well-rested with 6 to 8 hours of sleep) every day before and after your surgery.

Build your recovery nest.

Majority of our patients here at our practice choose to recover at home. Creating a recovery nest that is conducive to safe and quick healing includes making sure that your prescriptions are filled, you have sufficient grocery supplies, and you have tons of comfort aids at home — from blankets to pillows to a good book.

Lastly, it pays to have someone to stay with you  (that is if you live alone) or a caregiver to take care of your kids (if you happen to be an awesome mom!) during the first few days or weeks following surgery. 

If you’d like to learn more about recovering from plastic surgery, call us at 415.398.7778 or fill out this contact form to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you achieve the body shape you’ve always wanted!