Pre-op Breast Augmentations Instructions

The weeks before a breast augmentation surgery can be very stressful, especially if the patient does not know how to prepare for the upcoming surgery. While every plastic surgeon may have his or her own list of specific instructions, the general instructions for pre-op breast augmentation surgery are generally the same no matter where a patient is having her surgery or who is performing it.

Three Weeks Prior

Most surgeons will check the health of the body, discuss the patient’s medical history, and ensure that the patient is healthy enough to undergo surgery. Patients should also disclose the full list of medications, vitamins, and herbs they take so the doctor can determine if these are safe for use before and after surgery.

For women over the age of thirty-five, it may be necessary to get a mammogram or to send the results from a recent test to the surgeon’s office. It is usually during this time that some payment will be due for the surgery as well.

Two Weeks Prior

Two weeks before the surgery it is time to stop taking any medications that thin the blood, like aspirin or ibuprofen. If necessary, acetaminophen, like Tylenol, can be taken. It is also during this time that smoking or use of any other nicotine product should cease, as these products affect the body’s circulation and can make healing after surgery more difficult. It takes about 14 days for the nicotine to completely leave the system.

One Week Prior

One week before the surgery, the patient should cease drinking alcohol. If any additional lab tests are required, or if they were necessary but not performed at the three-week mark, they should be completed now and the results sent to the office.

The Day Before

Be prepared to arrive at the office at the appropriate time. After midnight, absolutely no foods and drinks should be consumed, including chewing gum and even water. If anything has been consumed, the surgery may have to be cancelled, as fasting is required. If the patient needs to take medication, only a small sip of water should be had along with the pill.

The Day Of the Surgery

Arrive at the office on time, and ready for the upcoming surgery. Showering beforehand is perfectly fine, but no makeup, perfume, deodorant, or jewelry should be worn. Loose fitting clothing is the best option, and a button up shirt usually makes it easy to comfortably put your clothes back on after the surgery.

Following these instructions will make the surgery go as smoothly as possible. It is especially imperative that patients do not eat or drink anything after midnight, as this could cause affect the anesthesia and cause the surgery to be delayed. 

For more information about breast augmentation or how to prepare for surgery, please contact Crawford Plastic Surgery today. The plastic surgeons at Crawford Plastic Surgery can determine if you are a suitable candidate for breast augmentation surgery.