When it comes to surgery, preparation is just as important as the procedure itself. Taking the right steps beforehand can not only ensure a smoother recovery but also increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. Whether you’re preparing for a cosmetic surgery like a tummy tuck or a functional procedure, following your surgeon’s preoperative guidelines is essential.

Dr. Caroline Szpalski is committed to providing her patients with the best care possible. In this blog, we’ll cover the key steps you need to take before surgery and why quitting smoking and vaping is crucial for your safety and recovery.

Contact us today at (646) 777-0170 or complete our online form to schedule your consultation with Dr. Szpalski today.

Steps to Take Before Surgery

Every surgery comes with a unique set of instructions designed to prepare your body for the procedure and minimize risks. Dr. Szpalski will provide you with detailed pre-op instructions, including dietary restrictions, medications to avoid, and guidelines on how to get ready for surgery day.

1. Follow Pre-Operative Instructions

These instructions may include:

Avoiding food and drink for a specified number of hours before surgery.
Stopping certain medications, especially blood thinners.
Taking preoperative medications, if prescribed.
Arranging transportation home post-surgery, as you will not be able to drive.

2. Adjust Your Medications

Some medications and supplements can increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with anesthesia, so it’s essential to review your current medications with Dr. Szpalski before surgery. In some cases, you may need to temporarily stop certain prescriptions or over-the-counter supplements.

Common substances to avoid include:

Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen).
Certain herbal supplements like ginkgo biloba or fish oil.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

Your body needs to be in top condition to heal properly after surgery. A healthy, balanced diet leading up to the procedure helps boost your immune system and ensures that you have the necessary nutrients for recovery.

Focus on:

Lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu).
Fresh fruits and vegetables.
Hydrating with plenty of water.

4. Quit Smoking and Vaping

Perhaps one of the most critical steps to take before surgery is quitting smoking and vaping. Whether you’re a smoker or you vape, these habits can significantly increase the risk of complications both during and after surgery. Let’s dive deeper into why it’s crucial to stop smoking and vaping at least 3 months before your procedure.

The Importance of Quitting Smoking and Vaping Before Surgery

Smoking and vaping have a well-documented negative impact on surgical outcomes. Nicotine and the chemicals found in cigarettes and e-cigarettes restrict blood flow, compromise lung function, and impair wound healing. Here are some key reasons why quitting is so important before surgery.

1. Improved Wound Healing

Nicotine constricts blood vessels, limiting the oxygen-rich blood supply that is critical for healing tissues after surgery. This can result in delayed wound healing, which increases the risk of complications such as infections, scarring, and even necrosis (tissue death). By quitting smoking and vaping, you allow your body to repair tissues more efficiently and reduce the risk of poor scarring.

2. Reduced Risk of Complications

Smokers and vapers are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing complications during and after surgery. These include:

Infections: Nicotine weakens the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.
Anesthesia complications: Smoking can impair lung function and increase the risk of breathing difficulties during anesthesia.
Cardiovascular issues: Smoking raises blood pressure and increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots during surgery.

3. Better Surgical Results

Patients who quit smoking and vaping before surgery often see better cosmetic results. Healthy, oxygenated blood is necessary to support proper wound healing, skin tightening, and scar minimization—especially important in cosmetic procedures like tummy tucks, breast augmentation, and facelifts.

4. Shorter Recovery Time

Patients who do not smoke or vape generally experience a faster and smoother recovery. The body’s natural healing processes are more efficient when nicotine and other toxins are no longer present, which means less swelling, bruising, and a quicker return to daily activities.

When Should You Stop Smoking and Vaping?

The sooner you quit, the better. Most surgeons, including Dr. Szpalski, recommend quitting 3 months before surgery. This allows your body time to clear out nicotine, restore normal blood flow, and strengthen your immune system.

It’s also essential to stay away from smoking and vaping during the recovery period, ideally for several weeks after surgery. This ensures that your body continues to heal without the damaging effects of nicotine interfering with the recovery process.

Support for Quitting Smoking and Vaping

If you’re struggling to quit smoking or vaping, you’re not alone. Quitting can be challenging, but it’s a necessary step to ensure the success of your surgery. Dr. Szpalski and her team are here to support you through the process. Consider using nicotine replacement therapies, support groups, or smoking cessation programs to help you quit for good.

Get Ready for Your Surgery with Dr. Szpalski Today

Preparing for surgery is more than just showing up on the day of your procedure. Taking the proper steps beforehand, including quitting smoking and vaping, can significantly impact your recovery and results. By following Dr. Szpalski’s preoperative guidelines and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can set yourself up for a smooth recovery and optimal outcomes. If you have any questions about surgery preparation or need support in quitting smoking, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Caroline Szpalski in Glen Ridge, NJ. Our team is committed to helping you achieve the best possible surgical experience and results.

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Preparing for Surgery: What You Need to Do