Preparing for Breast Surgery

Counting down the weeks or days as your big surgery day draws near? There is a lot to be done to help prepare you for surgery. While it is easy to get stressed and anxious, taking the time to properly prepare yourself before, during, and after breast surgery can result in a calm positive experience. Here at Dr. Alexander & Co. we dedicate a specific pre-operative appointment where a member of Dr. Alexander’s medical staff will go over details about your specific procedure. This is also a great time to ask any lingering questions about your surgery, risks and recovery.

Below are a few guidelines to consider when planning a cosmetic procedure for optimal results:

• Quit Smoking! Smoking constricts the oxygen rich blood flow and prohibits it from circulating properly which can cause severe healing issues. The exact time frame as to how long it is preferred to be off of any form of smoking varies on the procedure, however the longer the better!
• Discontinue all aspirin and anti-inflammatory products two weeks before and after surgery. If there is a medical necessity for taking those medications, please seek advice from a general practitioner.
• Other medicines such as birth control and/or herbal supplements may be asked to be avoided for a small time frame to optimize healing.
• Develop a strong support system. You will need to be watched over by a care giver (Family & Friends are great!) for at least 24-48hrs. and help with transportation as you will be unable to drive for the first week. (We will want you at home as much as possible the first week with the exception of post operative visits in the office)
• When it is closer to surgery you can set up your home so food, drinks, toiletries, and entertainment items are placed at hip level.
• Some patients find it helpful to go grocery shopping within the first few days before surgery to gather quick healthy snacks or prepare and freeze easy to microwave meals for recovery
• Patients preparing for breast surgery will need to have comfortable loose clothing preferably something that buttons or zips up in the front.
• Be sure to have all prescriptions filled prior to surgery and that they are ready to go for when you arrive back home.
• Follow ALL of your doctor’s directions. They are recommended for a reason, it is better that you ask questions than to be uncertain and go forward with something that can harm you. Plastic surgery should be taken very seriously!

Contact our office today at 702-242-6776 to schedule your breast augmentation, lift or reduction appointment today!