Pre-OperativeCare Instructions

Preparing properly for surgery is one of the most important steps in achieving a safe procedure and an optimal result. At Puyana Plastic Surgery, pre-operative care is approached with the same precision and intention as surgery itself.

The following guidelines are designed to help you prepare physically, medically, and logistically for your procedure. Your personalized instructions will always take priority if they differ from the information below.

Why Pre-Operative Preparation Matters

Surgical outcomes are influenced not only by technique, but by how well the body is prepared beforehand. Proper preparation helps to:

  • Reduce surgical risks and complications
  • Support anesthesia safety
  • Improve healing and recovery
  • Minimize swelling and bruising
  • Ensure a smoother post-operative experience

Following pre-operative instructions closely is essential.

Medical Clearance & Testing

Depending on your procedure, age, and medical history, you may be required to complete:

  • Pre-operative laboratory testing
  • Medical clearance from your primary care physician or specialist
  • Imaging or additional evaluations, if indicated

All required testing must be completed within the timeframe specified by our office.

Surgery may be postponed if pre-operative requirements are incomplete.

Medications & Supplements

Certain medications and supplements can increase bleeding risk or interfere with anesthesia. Unless otherwise instructed, avoid the following for at least 2 weeks before surgery:

  • Aspirin and aspirin-containing products
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac
  • Herbal supplements (including ginkgo biloba, ginseng, garlic supplements, turmeric, St. John’s Wort, and fish oil)
  • Vitamin E and weight-loss supplements

Do not stop prescription medications without approval. Please inform our team of all medications you are taking, including:

  • Blood pressure medications
  • Hormonal therapy
  • Diabetes medications
  • Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications

Specific guidance will be provided for the day of surgery.

Smoking, Nicotine & Vaping

Nicotine significantly increases the risk of poor wound healing, infection, scarring, and serious complications.

  • All nicotine use must be stopped at least 4 weeks before and 4 weeks after surgery
  • This includes cigarettes, vaping, nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges

Nicotine testing may be required. Surgery may be canceled if nicotine is detected.

Alcohol & Recreational Substances

  • Avoid alcohol for at least 48–72 hours before surgery
  • Recreational drugs, including marijuana, must be disclosed
  • Do not use recreational substances in the days leading up to surgery unless explicitly approved

Substances can interfere with anesthesia and recovery.

Nutrition &Hydration

Good nutrition supports healing.

  • Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals
  • Stay well hydrated in the days leading up to surgery
  • Avoid crash dieting or fasting before surgery

If supplements are recommended by our team, take only those approved.

salad

Fasting Before Surgery (NPO Guidelines)

To ensure anesthesia safety:

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery
  • This includes water, coffee, gum, mints, and candy

If specific medications are approved for the morning of surgery, they may be taken with a small sip of water only.

Skin Care & Hygiene

  • Shower with antibacterial soap the night before or morning of surgery, if instructed
  • Do not apply lotions, oils, deodorant, makeup, perfume, or hair products on the day of surgery
  • Remove nail polish and artificial nails if requested
  • Do not shave surgical areas unless directed

What to Wear & Bring

On the day of surgery:

  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing
  • Choose garments that button or zip in the front when applicable
  • Bring a valid photo ID
  • Bring necessary prescriptions or paperwork
  • Leave jewelry and valuables at home

Contact lenses should be removed prior to surgery.

Transportation & Support Person

You must arrange:

  • A responsible adult to drive you to and from surgery
  • Someone to stay with you for at least 24 hours after surgery, unless otherwise instructed

Rideshare services are not permitted for discharge after anesthesia.

Post-Operative Planning

Before surgery, ensure you have:

  • Prescriptions filled in advance (when possible)
  • A comfortable recovery space prepared
  • Meals, hydration, and essentials available
  • Time off work and responsibilities arranged

Out-of-town patients should review our Out-of-Town Patient Information page for additional planning guidance.

Final Confirmation

Our team will contact you prior to surgery to:

  • Confirm arrival time and location
  • Review final instructions
  • Answer last-minute questions

If you develop any illness, fever, infection, or new medical issue before surgery, notify our office immediately.

Your Responsibility

Your safety and results depend on partnership. Carefully following pre-operative instructions is essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

If you have questions or are unsure about any instruction, please contact our office before your procedure.

Questions Before Surgery?

If you have questions regarding pre-operative preparation, medications, or scheduling, our team is here to help.