Photo by: Anna Shvets
On the day of your cosmetic surgery procedure, it is normal to experience a range of emotions, including joy, excitement, and even some nervousness. But above all else, cosmetic surgeon Mark X. Lowney wants you to feel prepared. Here, he shares a helpful checklist for your day of surgery.
MORNING OF SURGERY
- Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the day of your surgery.
- Take medications with a small sip of water.
- Shower with the antiseptic soap provided to you.
- Refrain from applying deodorant, creams, lotions, cosmetics, and hair products.
- Remove dark-colored fingernail polish (light colors are OK, toenail polish in any color is OK).
- Take out piercings and jewelry.
- Wear glasses instead of contact lenses.
- Dress in loose-fitting clothing, including a top that zips up in front.
- Wear flat shoes or slip-on sandals.
HEADING TO THE SURGERY CENTER
- Confirm plans with the driver that will take you to the surgery center and pick you up afterward.
- Double-check directions to the surgery center (and plan for any traffic, if necessary).
- Pack up your photo ID card and insurance card.
- Leave cash and credit cards at home.
- Put a bottle of water, a package of crackers, a blanket, and soft pillows in the car for the ride home.
DRIVING HOME FROM THE SURGERY CENTER
- Have your driver take the smoothest route home from surgery (bumps and potholes may hurt).
- Use the pillows to get into a comfortable position.
- Eat a few crackers if you feel queasy from the anesthesia.
GETTING COMFORTABLE AT HOME
- Arrange yourself in a comfortable position in bed or on the couch.
- Sleep for most of the day, getting up every few hours to do a little walking.
- Keep your head and chest elevated with large pillows.
- Start your medications as directed and keep a written or electronic log of when and how much medication you take.
- Eat a light meal of comfort foods (e.g., soup, crackers, toast).
- Drink lots of water.
- Use ice packs on the treated area.
- Keep your post-surgery garments in place until the doctor advises otherwise.
- Do not smoke.
CONTACT OUR PRACTICE WITH QUESTIONS
If you have questions about any of the directions mentioned here or discussed in consultation with Dr. Lowney, don’t hesitate to contact our team by calling (877) 577-5476 or via email.
