Preparing for an operation

Having surgery of any kind must be considered carefully and must be carried out in the safest possible way. Therefore, if there are any measures that can make your recovery quicker and safer, they ought to be taken. Below is a recommended guide that you are advised to adhere to in preparation for your operation. The list is not exhaustive, but serves as a general outline. For more information, Mr Pacifico would be happy to discuss things further during your consultation.

What medicines should I avoid?

It is important to avoid taking aspirin or similar blood-thinning products before undergoing most plastic surgery procedures. This should be for 2-weeks either side of the operation. Aspirin has an adverse effect on bruising. The same is true for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Ibuprofen, Nurofen and Diclofenac). However for mole removal and other "minor" procedures, taking aspirin (or similar) would not preclude surgery from going ahead.

What else should I avoid?

Vitamin E, dietary supplements and herbal medicines should also be avoided. These may also increase your bleeding tendency. Vitamin C is safe. Alcohol should be avoided for 2-days prior to surgery due to the effects on increasing blood flow.

What about smoking?

Smoking may have serious effects on wound healing and infection rates, so ideally should be stopped a minimum of 8-weeks before surgery. It also can cause problems due to coughing which can cause bleeding to start after your operation; a problem that is of particular concern in facial operations. There are certain operations that Mr Pacifico will not undertake if you are smoking, including breast reductions, tummy tucks and facelifts.

What may help?

Some patients find homeopathic remedies such as arnica helpful to reduce bruising. If you wish to use arnica you should begin 2-3 days before the operation and continue for a week afterwards.

What about colds, flus and other infections?

If you develop any sort of illness prior to the operation please contact Mr Pacifico's office as you may need treatment prior to surgery, or alternatively your surgery may need to be put back.

When should I stop eating?

For local anaesthetic operations (with you awake) you may eat and drink normally. For general anaesthetic operations (with you asleep) you should not eat anything for at least 6-hours prior to surgery. You may drink water up until 2-hours before surgery. If in doubt, please ask.

When should I come to hospital?

The hospital will contact you to make the arrangements for your operation. Usually you will come in to hospital on the morning of your surgery, but occasionally you may be asked to come in the night before.

What should I bring to hospital?

Ensure you have your normal toiletries and any regular medication you take. If having a procedure on your face or eyes, it is advisable to bring a pair of sunglasses and a head scarf to wear home. Please see the information on individual procedures for specific information that may be relevant to you, such as appropriate bras or post-operative garments.