Preparing yourself before surgery is essential to ensure the best results and a comfortable recovery. During your consultation with board-certified, Dr. Steven Montante, you will receive instructions about things you should do and things you should avoid post-operatively to attain the outcome you want. But it’s equally important to prepare ahead of time so that you will have what you need at home for a comfortable and successful recovery. Here is a list of what we feel you should have handy when you get home from your surgery.
Because you will not be yourself for the first few hours after surgery, we suggest you have a friend or loved one come with you on the day of surgery. Not only will you need someone to drive you home as you will be under the effects of the anesthesia, but they should stay with you for at least 24 hours to monitor your condition in this crucial period.
Don’t worry about the fashionable choices here, wear something that is loose-fitting and comfortable like that old bathrobe or those pajamas that are too large. If you don’t have anything that fits this description, you will want to buy something larger than your normal size. Make sure it fits loosely around areas that may be sensitive after your surgery.
Dr. Montante will prescribe antibiotics and pain medications for you to take during recovery. We recommend you pick them up the day before surgery, so you are not attempting to visit the pharmacy on the way home from the surgical center. You want to stay ahead of the pain after surgery, and having these meds at home will ensure you can take them when you need them.
If you are taking pain medications, this can cause constipation. You can get fiber additives from your local pharmacy, whether they be in the form of a pill, liquid, or drink additives. Also, after a few days, you will likely transition to using over-the-counter pain medications, such as Tylenol. Ask ahead of time what you will be able to take, and stock up before your surgery.
We advise the use of ice packs applied to the treatment site to help reduce swelling and pain. You should prepare them before your surgery to make sure you have enough when you return home. You will want to closely follow Dr. Montante’s instruction as to how long and often to apply them.
Record our contact information on your cell phone and on paper at home, so you are sure to have it available in case of an emergency. When dealing with a complication, it’s best to call us before going to the emergency room; we may be the difference between spending all night in a waiting room and getting a good night’s sleep.
To pass the time during recovery, you may want to read that book you haven’t had time for in the past. Or you may want to jam to your favorite tunes (no dancing) or binge-watch movies or that a series. Create a great space where you can enjoy these entertainments comfortably, like in a recliner, lounge chair, or your bed.
Stock up on plenty of water and put an ice chest near where you will spend most of your time. Drink water liberally to hydrate. It helps flush your body and decreases the risk of infection.
We will give you a list of what you need to take care of your incisions as necessary. Make sure you prepare an incision care kit and have it handy for you or the one who will be helping you during recovery.
If you are considering any plastic surgery and need more information about the operation or how to prepare for the recovery call (804) 325-4795 or schedule a consultation.
