If you’ve elected to have breast enhancements in the Charlotte area, there are probably a lot of thoughts, emotions, and worries in your head.
The best way to calm yourself is by properly preparing for breast augmentation surgery.
It is highly recommended to follow this checklist and timeline to ensure a smooth operation.
Preparation
Before we start the checklist, you need to have blood work done. The testing will be to determine if your body can handle the surgery.
Blood levels all need to be normal. Electrolytes, hemoglobin, and blood clotting ability should be prepared to handle a surgeon making incisions.
Most plastic surgeon offices do not have blood labs, so it’ll be sent off for assessment.
People over the age of 50 should also get an ECG (electrocardiogram) to check that a heart is normal. Those with abnormal results for blood work or ECGs will need to consult the surgeon.
It is recommended that people who elect breast augmentation are finished having children. Pregnancy may or may not affect the shape of your new breasts.
If you plan to have other surgeries at the same time such as a tummy-tuck, know your recovery period and timelines will change. Two major surgeries at once need to be approved by the surgeon.
Two Weeks Out
If you’ve hit the two-week mark before surgery, it’s time to start preparing. Travel arrangements to your Charlotte plastic surgery clinic should be the first thing you check.
- Find a friend or family member who can drive you home after the surgery
- You will need someone to watch you for at least 24 hours after you arrive home
- Arrange for any childcare
- Some pets may need to board the first few days of recovery
Failing to figure out post-surgery logistics can leave you scrambling for help at the last minute.
A patient should also alter their diet and habits two weeks out. These changes will help to avoid complications.
- Stop taking herbal supplements
- Substitute ibuprofen for acetaminophen
- Stop smoking
- Quit alcohol
Herbal supplements can interfere with the doctor’s anesthesia. A heavy concentration of ginkgo or ginseng can reduce the drug’s effects.
Ibuprofen is great for headaches but interferes with your body’s ability to clot blood.
Smoking and drinking thin your blood thus prolonging any recovery efforts. It’s good to avoid drinking from this point until you’re fully healed. For your general health, it’s recommended you quit smoking altogether.
One Week Out
This is a great shopping time. Your focus should be on purchasing and preparing meals for your recovery. Other items can be purchased to improve your time.
- Shirts that button in the front
- Laxatives
- Loose-fitting clothing
- Antibacterial soap
- Movies or books to pass the time
- Low-sodium foods
Laxatives will counter the side effect of constipation from pain medication. Your goal should be to remain as comfortable as possible.
Low-sodium foods prevent your body from swelling and fluid retention. Make sure your snacks and meals are still tasty.
You should start going over plans with friends and family who are going to help you out. Buy small gifts for your support cast as a sign of appreciation.
One Day Away
Your surgeon will have very specific orders for you the night before surgery.
- Clean your hair and body with the antibacterial soap you purchased
- Do not eat or drink anything eight hours before surgery
- Try to relax and get a good night’s sleep
Cleaning your entire body helps remove any possible germs that could get into your body when incisions are made.
You should not eat or drink eight hours before surgery for safety. Under anesthesia, liquids and solids can be regurgitated and end up in your lungs.
If you forget and accidentally eat or drink something, call your surgeon immediately and have the procedure rescheduled.
Try and finalize and logistics and travel plans. Your team probably didn’t forget, but a reminder can keep the day’s schedule moving quickly.
The Day of the Surgery
It’s an exciting time knowing you’re finally getting the surgery you’ve desired. Stay focused and remember these items.
- Do not wear makeup, jewelry, contacts, or anything that needs to be removed daily
- Do not eat or drink
- Wear loose-fitting clothing
- Be ready for the new look
Remember, you’ll be in discomfort after surgery. Rely on any help you’ve arranged and don’t exert yourself.
You won’t be able to raise your arms high for the first few days, but pain and range of motion will improve daily.
Bed rest and pain medication is the best remedy for the first 24 hours after you’re released. Some medical clinics have overnight care in a hospital room.
Post-Surgery
The relief of buying all your supplies and scheduling help two weeks is going to pay dividends.
The recovery time varies from person to person barring any complications. If you notice these issues, contact your surgeon immediately.
- Nipple sensitivity changes
- Infection
- Damage to breast tissue
- A ruptured implant
Share anything that seems abnormal.
Vitamin supplements can speed up recovery, too. A holistic approach to health activates your body to repair itself. Consult with your physician to decide what vitamins work for you.
You can avoid scar tissue by regularly massaging your breasts for up to a year after surgery. The massaging helps provide a more natural feel to your breasts. Your surgeon will give instructions on how to do it.
Don’t forget to schedule an annual check-up. Most surgeons will want to see you sooner to monitor progress and answer any questions.
Take advantage of the benefit of seeing your surgeon post-surgery. Let your primary care physician know you’ve had surgery, too. This will help them understand or modify any physicals.
Properly Preparing For Breast Augmentation
Your choice to get cosmetic surgery provides an exciting and nervous opportunity. Mitigate fears and worry by properly preparing for breast augmentation with this checklist.
The preparation you complete can decide if your operation and recovery are a success. Make things easier on yourself. If you’re interested in knowing all the latest information and trends on beauty, health, and fashion, check back with our website often.