Plastic surgery: getting prepared before the surgery

28 June 2013

Getting prepared for plastic surgeryBy Plastic Surgeon Dr Dirk Kremer

Plastic surgery shouldn't be entered into without fully understanding all aspects of the process. I've previously written about the do's and don'ts of plastic surgery, where I revealed some shocking reasons why people have plastic surgery, all of which I strongly disagree with. However, if you're confident that plastic surgery is the right option for you I've put together a small list of what you should do and be aware of before the surgery.

Is plastic surgery right for you?

While you may feel confident that you need plastic surgery, it’s important to make sure you understand the consequences of undergoing aesthetic surgery. Make sure you find a plastic surgeon you trust to answer all your questions and dispel your doubts. You should only have plastic surgery for you and no one else, be that a wife, husband, friend or even bullies. Never let anyone pressure you into anything you don’t want to do! It is also important to make an informed choice, if you’ve recently suffered a break up, had children or been through any other life changing event, wait until things cool down before thinking of plastic surgery.  

Choosing your plastic surgeon

If you’re 100% committed on having plastic surgery then the next step is choosing a professional plastic surgeon. When making this decision you should ensure that your chosen plastic surgeon is Certified by a Board of Plastic surgeons such as BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons). Board Certified Plastic surgeons have completed extensive training and constantly monitor the industry, improving their skills in order to offer their patients the best possible treatment and care. If you have any doubts about whether a doctor is Board Certified you are perfectly entitled to ask for their credentials, and Board Certified doctors will always be happy to show you their certificates and awards. As a Certified plastic surgeon you can be confident that you’re in good hands. I believe in being honest and upfront with all my patients and I’m also a proud member of the German Society of German Plastic Surgeons and of the UK’s General Medical Council.

Choosing the right plastic surgery procedure

Sometimes you know you want to have surgery or change your looks but you don’t really know how to achieve it. It’s totally normal if you don’t know all the different ways of getting rid of wrinkles or how to get a nicer looking tummy. Do you need liposuction (in which case I would advise you on my signature procedure the E-Lipo) or a tummy tuck? Is it better to have a facelift and neck lift or Botox? That’s when you need help from a specialist. A non-surgical procedure may be more appropriate if you’re not sure about the result; if you have Botox but don’t like the result, you just have to wait 6 to 12 months and the effects will have disappeared. If you choose plastic surgery procedures such as breast augmentation and breast reduction you need to undergo surgery again if you want to change back to the way you were before. Although I can do standard procedures, I have also used my knowledge and experience to create my own signature procedures: the Turn Back TimeTM Facelift , TBT TM -Eyelift , e-lipoTM and the Split Muscle Breast Augmentation.

Speak with you GP

While it’s important to speak with your plastic surgeon, it is also worth contacting your GP before making your mind on cosmetic surgery. This is because they have little interest in your personal life and only care about your medical welfare. They will offer impartial and non-judgemental advice that may not always be available from families and friends.

Eating and drinking before plastic surgery

If you’re having any form of anaesthesia during plastic surgery then the typical rules for any operation will apply. It is recommended that you don’t eat or drink anything after midnight before your surgery - and avoid drinking alcohol 2 weeks before and after surgery. Under some circumstances you may be able to drink clear liquids such as water up to a few hours before surgery, especially ice cubes. This will be decided at the discretion of your anaesthetist. If you smoke it is recommended that you don’t smoke 2 to 5 weeks before and after surgery (depending on the procedure), as this will help reduce your risks of complications after plastic surgery.

Current medications

It is important to inform your doctor during the first consultation and before the surgery about any medications you are currently taking and any pre-existing medical conditions. Some drugs may have side effects with anaesthesia so it is extremely important to tell your surgeon and anaesthetist about every medication you take, so you can benefit from the best treatment options available.

Clothing to wear before plastic surgery

After plastic surgery it’s possible that you may suffer from some swelling, this is completely natural. You may also have a number of bandages or surgical dressings around the area and that is why it’s important to wear baggy, loose fitting clothing where possible. Make sure when entering hospital to have the right clothes to go home after surgery. It is also recommended that you don’t wear any jewellery; try and leave it and other valuables at home.

Make preparations for after the plastic surgery

If you’re having plastic surgery you must be prepared for the period post-surgery. The most important preparation is making sure there is someone with you who can drive you home (or ask someone to call a cab), as after any surgery that requires anaesthesia you’ll be in no fit state to drive.

I hope this advice has been useful for anyone thinking about plastic surgery. Here at Harley Street Aesthetics I pride myself in delivering honest, impartial advice on every aspect of plastic surgery, and as always keeping a patient’s health at heart. If you would like to speak with me about anything regarding plastic surgery feel free to contact me. You can also follow me on Twitter, Facebook and Google + for all the latest news. Also check back on my blog soon to read my advice on what to do after your plastic surgery procedure.

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