What to Avoid Before Breast Augmentation Surgery

By Dr Zion Chan

Getting a boob job isn't exactly like going in for open-heart surgery. It is, however, still a surgical procedure. With this in mind, there are certain things patients should do and not do prior to the big day. When making sure the outcome is pleasing is the priority, women can do themselves rather big favours by paying attention to the do's and don'ts prior to the operation.

The things to avoid prior to breast implant surgery include:

* Blood-thinning medications - Whether they are over-the-counter or prescription strength, blood-thinning medications can cause problems with clotting following surgery and might increase a woman's chances of bleeding during the recovery process. The medications to avoid include plain aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and physician prescribed blood thinners. If prescription drugs are a concern prior to a boobjob, do make sure to let the surgeon know about them and seek proper advice for cessation.

* Picking out post-surgical bras - Whilst it can be quite tempting to pick out sexier bras before a boob job, this is simply not a good idea. The fit of bras following surgery can matter a great deal in the healing process. With this in mind, it is simply best to wait until final measurements are attainable to make purchases.

* Anxiety - It is important to get a good night's rest before surgery. To help reduce patient stress and anxiety, some surgeons do offer medications for the evening before the procedure. Consider taking what is prescribed to help lessens stress and induce a restful sleep.

There are also a number of do's that women should adhere to before the surgical procedure. They include:

* Making certain the surgeon does have the full medical history, including current medications - This can be imperative not only for the outcome of a breast implant surgery, but also for safety. Do make certain a doctor is fully informed about everything.

* Being sure allergies are properly reported - Prior to surgery, it is vital that the doctor and the surgical facility are both informed of any allergies to medications, foods and surgical supplies. Check acquaintance forms to make sure they are properly noted.

* Drinking fluids prior to the procedure - It is often recommended that patients take extra care to ensure that plenty of fluids are consumed in the 24 hours prior to surgery.

* Arranging for support person assistance - Check and double check to make sure a support person will be available to assist you following the surgery. Generally, patients who undergo day surgery for breast implants are able to go home within a few hours of the procedure. This, however, does not mean that a woman is released to fully care for herself. It is vital to have a support person around for at least the first 24 hours.

Breast augmentation surgery is simple enough to perform on an outpatient basis, but that does not mean the procedure should be taken lightly. To help ensure a proper outcome, women can help themselves by heeding advice prior to the operation.

Dr Zion Chan is a cosmetic surgeon in Sydney, specialising in breast augmentation, rhinoplasty and box. For a free consultation please visit Breast Augmentation.