Pre-Op, Post-Op and Recovery Instructions
At Richmond Aesthetic Surgery, we are committed to providing outstanding patient care at every stage of the treatment process. In an effort to help our patients be prepared and educated about their upcoming surgery, we have provided general pre-operative and post-operative instructions as a guideline of what to expect leading up to and following their body contouring procedures. Following these recommendations can reduce the risk of complications and aid in the recovery process.
Dr. Neil J. Zemmel, along with their knowledgeable team, are always available to answer any questions or address any concerns. Please don’t hesitate to contact us should you need assistance at any time.
Pre-Operative Instructions
Two Weeks Before Surgery
Before the scheduled date of your procedure, your surgeon will meet with you to review your customized surgical plan, any associated risks, recovery instructions, and potential results.
Since physical strain should be minimized during the recovery period, Dr. Zemmel suggests maintaining normal activity levels in the weeks before surgery.
Along with detailed pre-operative instructions, you will receive prescriptions for any medications you might need, allowing you to fill them well before the day of your surgery. These medications should not be taken prior to surgery, unless advised by your doctor to do so. To help reduce the risk of post-operative complications, it is recommended that you abstain from the following in the weeks leading up to surgery:
- Over-the-counter medications: Do not take medications containing or related to aspirin, including NSAIDS, anti-inflammatory medications, and blood-thinning medications, as they may affect the ability for blood to clot and can cause increased bleeding.
- Vitamin and herbal supplements: It is best to avoid certain supplements before surgery as they may cause an adverse reaction to anesthesia, prolonged bleeding, and affect the healing process. A few examples include echinacea, ginseng, and St. John’s Wort.
- Tobacco products: Smoking, vaping, and other tobacco intake can significantly increase complications during surgery as well as the healing and recovery period. Your surgeon may recommend stopping even 6-8 weeks in advance, depending on the surgery.
Your surgeon will provide you with a complete list of these medications and supplements during the final pre-operative consultation.
24 Hours Before Surgery
Be sure to thoroughly cleanse the evening before surgery, especially at the procedure area(s) to ensure proper cleaning and lessen chances for bacteria and infection.
Avoid moisturizers, make-up, perfume/deodorant, nail polish, or hair products after washing.
Anesthesia typically requires a certain amount of fasting prior to surgery. Your surgeon will advise a specific fasting timeframe for when to stop eating and drinking the night before your surgery.
Day of Surgery
Remove all jewelry as it should not be worn to the surgery appointment.
Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and footwear as well as pack another clean set.
It is recommended for patients to arrange for help around the house for at least the first few days following surgery to ensure proper rest and healing. For mommy makeover and tummy tuck patients, it is recommended to arrange for help with children during the first few weeks of recovery.
Post-Operative Recovery
Body contouring patients typically spend the night in the hospital, allowing our board-certified plastic surgeon and staff to ensure patient comfort and safety. IV fluids help patients stay well-hydrated the night after surgery, which can be vital for a fast recovery. Dr. Zemmel visits all his tummy tuck patients once more in the morning before they are discharged. At this time, he will provide detailed instructions for showering and changing the dressings.
It is quite common for body contouring patients to require several weeks after surgery to feel like themselves again. Below is a typical timeline for recovery:
Two to Three Days After Surgery
Some degree of swelling, stiffness, discomfort, and bruising is normal immediately following surgery, though these side effects can be easily managed with medication. Common medications include Percocet for pain, Valium for a muscle relaxant, an antibiotic, and an anti-nausea medication. Though patients will likely be sore or stiff after surgery, our surgeon recommend standing up and walking as soon as patients feel comfortable doing so.
Five to Seven Days After Surgery
Patients will see their plastic surgeon for a follow-up appointment. At this time, they can ensure that recovery is going as expected, remove drainage tubes, and remove any stitches that have not dissolved. Some patients choose to return to work after this follow-up while others choose to wait another week or two.
Two to Three Weeks After Surgery
Dr. Zemmel recommends resuming light exercise to reduce swelling and the risk of blood clots.
Three to Four Weeks After Surgery
Patients should be able to stop wearing the prescribed compression garment.
Four to Six Weeks After Surgery
Strenuous activity, vigorous exercise, and lifting heavy objects (as well as small children) may be resumed.
Though the body will heal dramatically in the first four to six weeks, patients often notice their final results develop over the course of 6 to 12 months as residual swelling resolves and your body completely recovers. Over this time, incision scars will fade, often leaving only a thin, soft white line. With a healthy diet and exercise routine, patients can enjoy their new figure and enhanced appearance.
Schedule Your Body Contouring Consultation
For more information about pre-operative or post-operative instructions, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Zemmel, please contact Richmond Aesthetic Surgery today.