During the pre-operative consultation for tummy tuck cosmetic surgery, the patient should be prepared to share the details of their medical history frankly, and talk about their current medication and supplement regimen. The preparation process of tummy tuck will begin from the moment the patient has decided to go ahead with the surgery.
The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) is a premier practice led by well-known plastic surgeons providing tummy tuck and other procedures for the breast, body, and face. The surgeons at ACPS will pay careful attention to the preparation aspects of tummy tuck before proceeding with the procedure. The practice provides tummy tuck to patients in Houston TX, and surrounding locations.
Pre-operative Evaluation
Prior to tummy tuck plastic surgery procedure the surgeon will perform a detail assessment of the patient’s risk of thrombosis or formation of blood clots in the blood vessels. To minimize the risk of blood clots, the surgeon will require the patient to stop taking birth control pills, aspirin, hormonal supplements, or vitamin E supplements. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons mandates that patients should sign a consent form confirming the stoppage of all supplements before the surgery.
Eating a Healthy Diet
The patient will benefit if they adopt a healthy diet well before the tummy tuck surgery. Good nutrition will support faster recovery and boost the immune system to reduce the risk of infections. The diet should be rich in lean protein, which is an important nutrient for healing. Healthy eating habit will also help the patient maintain the results of tummy tuck for a long time.
Fitness Routine
In the weeks leading to the tummy tuck surgery, the patient should begin a regular exercise and fitness routine. A faster metabolism and an increased muscle mass will support an easier and quicker recovery. If the body is leaner and operating at high efficiency, it will help to prevent weight gain in the days following the tummy tuck surgery when the patient will be required to avoid vigorous exercises.
Quitting the Habit of Smoking
Candidates for tummy tuck surgery will be required to quit smoking at least two prior to the procedure. However, even with this cessation period, a smoker will still have a higher risk of complications. ACPS encourages its patients in Houston TX, and other areas to stop smoking entirely before their scheduled tummy tuck surgery.
Adjusting Medications
Certain types of drugs, nutrition or herbal supplements, and vitamins may increase the risk of complications during or after tummy tuck. The surgeon may advise the patient to stop taking birth control, hormonal replacement therapy, NSAIDS, or post-cancer treatments. Aspirin and blood thinners should not be taken at least five days prior to the surgery.
Recovery Preparation
The patient can do some preparations in advance for the recovery period that will follow tummy tuck. They should apply for about 10 days off from work, arrange someone to drive them back home after the surgery, and assemble all the supplies that may be required during the recovery.
For more information about The Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery (ACPS) physicians and the cosmetic surgery treatments and procedures they perform please click here or call us at 713.799.9999. We have offices in and around Houston, Texas.