A smooth plastic surgery experience starts well before the operating room. Beyond the practical logistics, there are a few evidence-based steps that can genuinely optimize your outcome. Here’s how to prepare.
Practical Steps Before Surgery
- Confirm the details — date, time, location, and any specific pre-op instructions.
- Arrange transportation and help. If you’re having sedation or general anesthesia, you cannot drive yourself — you need a responsible adult to bring you home and, ideally, stay with you for the first 24–48 hours. No Uber or Lyft.
- Cover your responsibilities. Notify work, arrange time off, and plan care for children and pets in case surgery runs long.
- Organize your medical info — a current medication list with doses, plus allergies and prior surgeries for your surgeon and anesthesia team.
Set Up Your Recovery Space
- Stock supplies and recovery-friendly foods in advance. A budget tip: feminine maxi pads are made of similar absorptive material to ABD pads at a fraction of the cost.
- For body procedures — especially liposuction — grab a box of puppy pads (or dark towels) for the car seat, sofa, and bed, since some drainage is normal for the first few days.
- Many procedures are more comfortable sleeping upright, so a recliner or extra pillows help (confirm specifics with your surgeon).
- Do your chores and meal prep beforehand, and keep bland foods (Jello, broth, soup) on hand in case of post-op nausea.
- Line up entertainment — books, playlists, downloaded shows.
Hygiene Prep
Remove nail polish, makeup, lotions, and perfume. Remove any removable body piercings — if cautery is used during surgery, metal can cause an electrical arc and burn. And a note on antiseptic wash below.
Evidence-Based Steps That Matter
Chlorhexidine Body Wash
Washing with chlorhexidine gluconate before surgery meaningfully reduces skin bacteria — including resistant organisms like MRSA — for a cleaner surgical field. Important exception: it should not be used near the eyes or for facial/neck procedures (it can damage the cornea). For face or neck surgery, simply cleanse with your usual soap and shampoo the night before.
Pre-Surgical Carbohydrate Drinks
The old rule of “nothing after midnight” has evolved. Current evidence supports clear fluids up to 2 hours before surgery for most patients, and a pre-surgical carbohydrate drink can reduce stress and improve recovery. One key caveat: GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy slow gastric emptying — be sure to tell your surgeon if you take them, as your instructions will differ.
Nutrition, Hydration, Nicotine, and Alcohol
Stay well hydrated and eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet in the days before surgery to support your immune system and healing. Stop nicotine 4 weeks before and after to reduce infection and pulmonary risk. Moderate alcohol beforehand and avoid it afterward — it affects anesthesia dosing, bleeding, and medication interactions. Being transparent with your surgeon lets you plan safely.
The Bottom Line
Preparing well — logistically, physically, and with a few science-backed steps — sets the stage for a smoother, safer surgery. Your surgeon is your best resource for advice tailored to you and your procedure. Schedule a consultation to build your personalized plan.
This post is general education, not individual medical advice.