How do I prepare for my breast asymmetry surgery?

You will have been given a list of things to do before your surgery. These will include the last time you can eat and drink before your surgery, what to bring with you on the day of your surgery, medications and what will happen after your surgery.

You now have time to prepare for your surgery. Surgery is a major undertaking and can be stressful – both mentally and physically. As well as the actual trauma on the body there is the process of having to arrange certain things beforehand, not to mention the day of surgery itself. Then, you will have to have things in place for your recovery.

A good way of approaching this is to do a ‘To Do’ list. Note down things you have to do such as ensuring that essential jobs in the house are taken care of, important bills have been paid, the cat (or other family pet) will be looked after and that someone will be on hand if you need help.

Arrange now for someone to take you to the clinic or hospital and to drive you home the next day. Your stay in hospital will depend on what technique you have had such as breast augmentation or breast uplift.

If you smoke then you will have to stop this before your surgery. It would be better if you could give up altogether although this can be difficult. If you can at least stop two weeks before surgery and not resume this until two weeks after surgery then this will help. Your surgeon will not perform the procedure if you are still smoking right up to the day of the surgery itself.

If you are taking any prescription medicines then check with your surgeon about whether you should take them or not. He/she may advise you to stop taking them until after your surgery. There is the risk that the medication might cause an adverse reaction during or after surgery so it is better to be safe than sure.

For example, if you take anti-inflammatory medicine or Aspirin then stop taking these before your operation.

This also applies to non-prescription medications such as vitamin/mineral supplements, Evening Primrose Oil, Cod Liver Oil and Ginseng. Your surgeon and/or GP can advise you about what over the counter remedies to avoid.

Make sure you have ordered enough painkillers and medication to cover you during your recovery period. Also ensure that you have ice packs (reduce swelling), dressings, gauze, moisturisers, scar reducing cream and Arnica and/or Bromelain (good for reducing bruising and swelling). With the last two items, check with your surgeon first.

Prepare quick meals and snacks which do not require you to cook. You will be resting as much as possible so soups, protein drinks, juices, light snacks etc are a good idea. Ensure that you have fruit and vegetables as they will aid with your recovery. Buy bottled water and convenience meals for the post-surgery period.

Arrange for someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours after your surgery. This can be your partner, a family member of a close friend. You will be very tired and disorientated from the surgery for the first 24 to 48 hours afterwards so have someone close to hand. They can help you with your normal household jobs. You do not want to overdo things at this time so arrange for someone to do these things for you.

The week before your surgery – have your last alcoholic drink.

The day before is when you can do any last minute checks. Then, pack a small overnight bag with the following items:

  • Nightwear, dressing gown and slippers
  • Magazines, books and a personal music player such as an MP3 player or iPod.
  • Your own pillow
  • Toiletries
  • Hairbrush, comb and other related items
  • Shower cap and moisturising body wash plus body lotion
  • Tissues
  • Lip balm

Breast Asymmetry Surgery Guide Index:

COSMETIC SURGERY TREATMENTS

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