How to Prepare for Your Abdominoplasty Surgery?

3 Months Before the Procedure

• Initial Consultation and Planning: Schedule a consultation with Dr. Zamir to discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. This is an important opportunity to understand the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
• Healthy Diet and Exercise: Start maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. Achieving a stable weight before surgery can improve both your results and recovery. Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Begin making necessary lifestyle changes, especially if you smoke or drink. Smoking and drinking can significantly hinder the healing process, so it’s essential to quit at least three months prior to surgery.
• Medical Evaluations: Complete any required medical evaluations or lab tests as recommended by Dr. Zamir. This may include blood tests or a physical exam to ensure you’re in good health and ready for surgery.

1 Month Before the Procedure

• Medication Review: Be sure to discuss your current medications with Dr. Zamir. You may need to stop or adjust certain ones, particularly blood thinners or supplements that could increase the risk of bleeding.
• Nutritional Supplements: Start taking recommended supplements to support your immune system and promote healing, but only after consulting with our plastic surgeon. 
• Finalize Surgery Details: Confirm the surgery date, recovery plans, and post-operative care instructions. It is important to arrange for someone to drive you home post-procedure and assist you during the initial recovery phase.
• Mental Preparation: Familiarize yourself with the recovery process and set realistic expectations for the results to mentally prepare for the surgery.

1 Week Before the Procedure

• Pre-Operative Instructions: Follow Dr. Zamir’s pre-operative guidelines carefully, which may include specific instructions regarding eating, drinking, and adjustments to your medications.
• Avoid Certain Substances: Avoid alcohol and unapproved medications or supplements to minimize risks.
• Rest and Hydration: Proper sleep and hydration are essential for a smooth surgery and effective recovery.
• Prepare Recovery Area: Set up a comfortable recovery area at home, ensuring that essential items like pillows, ice packs, and post-surgery garments are easily accessible.
• Final Check-Up: Schedule a final check-up with Dr. Zamir to review the procedure and address any last-minute questions or concerns you may have.

The Night Before the Procedure

• Follow Fasting Instructions: Dr Zamir will likely recommend you to fast, usually starting at midnight before your surgery. This means no food, drinks, or even water to reduce the risk of complications.
• Prepare Your Body: Take an antibacterial shower the night before surgery, as instructed. This helps reduce the risk of post-surgery infection. Avoid using lotions, perfumes, or deodorants afterward.
• Pack Your Bag: Pack a bag with the essentials you’ll need for the hospital or surgical center. Include your identification, insurance information, comfortable loose clothing, slip-on shoes, and any post-surgery garments.
• Arrange Transportation and Care: Confirm your transportation plans for getting to and from the surgical center. Ensure you have someone responsible to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours, as you’ll be recovering from anesthesia and will need assistance.
• Set Up Your Recovery Area: Prepare a comfortable space at your home for recovery with essentials like pillows, blankets, ice packs, and medications within easy reach. Having a relaxing, stress-free environment to return to post-surgery can significantly aid in your recovery.
• Avoid Certain Medications: Refrain from taking any medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements Dr. Zamir advised you to avoid. These might increase bleeding risk or interact with anesthesia.