Getting In Shape Before Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation using implants is a common and popular elective surgery with many women, who are either dissatisfied with the natural shape or size of their breasts, or need the operation to correct birth defects or to replace tissue removed during a mastectomy. While there are some risks involved, as there are with any surgical procedure, there are a number of things the patient can do to make her surgery and recovery go smoothly.

First, make sure that the surgeon who will be working on you has a list of all of the medicines you are taking prior to the operation. You should stop taking aspirin or any aspirin related products a week before your operation, as well as any Vitamin C supplements. Also, find out when you should stop consuming alcohol, as all three of these can increase your risk of experiencing excessive bleeding during and following surgery. You may also want to review your medical history with your surgeon, as a family history of blood clots, certain medical conditions like diabetes and heart disease, and smoking, can increase your risk of complications following the procedure, as well.

If you are a smoker, be sure to take your last puff roughly three weeks before your surgery date, and plan on being smoke free for at least three weeks after the operation is over. If you’re thinking about quitting for good, be aware that nicotine patches and similar aids won’t be a viable option for you right away, as they can cause the same delays in healing as smoking.

In the weeks leading up to your breast augmentation, make sure to eat healthy, and make sure that you are getting enough protein, as your body will need it to help the healing process. Also, start preparing easy to heat and eat meals and snacks for your recovery at home. Quick snacks such as soup, applesauce, frozen meals and juice are ideal options. Check with your doctor about ways to reduce your salt intake, since this will help ease swelling during recovery.

Take advantage of the time before the operation to prepare your home for your recovery. Be sure to get any prescribed medicines filled and picked up, particularly pain medications or antibiotics. Set up a comfortable area or two with everything you will need or want easily accessible: remotes to the TV or stereo, books or magazines, pillows, and the telephone. Have a supply of icepacks ready, in case of swelling; frozen packages of vegetable or fruits can also be used as a comfortable alternative.

If your surgery is being performed as an outpatient operation, arrange for transportation to the hospital and back home. Also, have someone remain with you the night after the procedure and set up a system to call for help, if you need it.

Be sure to get a copy of the insert for your brand or type of breast implants. These are often found inside the manufacturer's package and your surgeon should be able to help you locate it. The inserts contain information regarding any hazards associated with that type of implant, as well as precautions you should take. Along with the insert, be sure to get a copy of the device sticker, which identifies your implants by brand, size and the lot number it was manufactured under. Keep all of this information with your medical records, in case there is a problem following your operation, or if you change doctors.