Ways to Prepare for Your Postponed Surgery During Stay at Home

If you have a scheduled elective cosmetic surgery that has been delayed due to the COVID-19 outbreak, you are not alone!  Although this is frustrating and we know you are eager to schedule your procedure, we are carefully evaluating the appropriate time to return to the operating room.  However, there are some things you can do from home in order to prepare for your surgery.

  1. Clean up your diet.  While comfort foods and takeout seem like an easy option right now, it’s important to eat a balanced diet prior to surgery complete with antioxidants and vitamins.  This will help ensure a proper recovery.  In addition, minimizing your alcohol content is essential.  You should stop any alcohol intake one week prior to surgery.
  2. Maintain a daily exercise routine.  Adequate exercise is essential to reduce stress levels and improve energy levels.  These are important for recovery.  Keeping your heart and lungs in good condition is helpful for recuperation and tolerating anesthesia well.
  3. Avoid smoking.  Smoking cessation is a must for at least 3 weeks prior to and after surgery.  Nicotine reduces the blood supply to tissues for healing and can lead to wound breakdown.  Nicotine replacement products can do the same.
  4. Wear sunscreen and use moisturizer.  Sun exposure can lead to damaged skin that may not heal as quickly after surgery.  Sunburns and sun exposure can lead to free radical dissemination in the skin which can impair wound healing.  Keeping your skin hydrated will improve scars and how your incisions heal. 
  5. Reduce stress levels.   These times can be stressful with working from home, schooling your children, and the uncertainty of it all.  Take the time to keep a positive mindset.  That may be in the form of meditation, watching a favorite movie, or talking with a close friend or relative.  Keeping a positive attitude will help reduce stress levels and ultimately prepare you for your upcoming surgery. 

We are keeping patients updated regarding the current elective surgery schedule.  In the meantime, keeping up with your mind and body will ultimately help prepare you for your surgery which will ultimately lead to improved wound healing, faster recovery, and better results. Contact us if you have any further questions!