How should I prepare before plastic surgery?

Start by choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, clearly communicating your goals, and following all pre-op instructions. Prepare your home for recovery and arrange for help during the first few days post-surgery.

What pre-operative instructions should I follow?

Avoid blood-thinning medications and herbal supplements. Stop smoking and drinking alcohol as directed. If general anesthesia is involved, fast for 8 hours before the procedure and stay hydrated in the days leading up to surgery.

Why is it important to prepare your home before surgery?

Having a comfortable recovery space, stocked medications, cold compresses, and entertainment ready helps reduce stress and supports your healing process after plastic surgery.

Do I need someone to help me after plastic surgery?

Yes, it's essential to have someone drive you home and stay with you for at least 24–48 hours to assist with meals, medication, and mobility during early recovery.

What mindset should I have before undergoing surgery?

Stay positive, understand that healing takes time, and be prepared for temporary discomfort and swelling. Follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions closely and reach out with any concerns.

What should I stock up on before surgery?

Prepare by having your prescribed medications, soft high-protein foods, ice packs, wound care supplies, and comfortable clothing like button-down shirts ready before surgery day.

What are the most common mistakes to avoid before and after plastic surgery?

Avoid ignoring your pre-op instructions, rushing recovery, comparing yourself to others, skipping follow-up appointments, or failing to communicate concerns with your surgeon.

How to Prepare for Plastic Surgery: A Complete Guide

Plastic surgery is a powerful way to enhance your appearance, restore confidence, and feel more aligned with your ideal self. But achieving the best possible outcome isn’t just about the procedure—it also depends heavily on how well you prepare in the days and weeks leading up to it.

At VIVE Plastic Surgery, we want every patient to feel informed, supported, and empowered. That’s why we’ve created this complete guide to help you prepare for surgery—physically, emotionally, and practically—so you can walk into the operating room with confidence and peace of mind.

1. Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon

The most important decision you’ll make is choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. Look for someone who:

Specializes in the procedure you want
Has before-and-after photos of real patients
Makes you feel comfortable, heard, and informed
Offers a clean, accredited surgical facility

At VIVE Plastic Surgery, our experienced surgeons combine artistic vision with surgical precision to deliver safe, natural-looking results.

2. Be Clear About Your Goals and Expectations

During your consultation, be honest and detailed about what you want to achieve. Bring inspiration photos, ask questions, and listen to your surgeon’s feedback.

Your surgeon will evaluate:

Your facial or body anatomy
Your skin elasticity
Any medical conditions or medications you’re taking

Having realistic expectations will help you feel happier and more satisfied with the outcome.

3. Follow Pre-Op Instructions Carefully

Once your surgery is scheduled, you’ll receive detailed pre-operative guidelines. These may include:

Medications and Supplements

Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and blood thinners for 1–2 weeks prior.
Stop taking herbal supplements like vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, or St. John’s wort.
Inform your surgeon of all medications.

Smoking and Alcohol

Stop smoking at least 2–4 weeks before and after surgery, as it can impair healing and increase complications.
Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours pre-op, as it may thin the blood.

Fasting and Hydration

If your procedure involves general anesthesia, don’t eat or drink for 8 hours before.
Stay well hydrated in the days leading up to your surgery.

4. Prepare Your Home for Recovery

Setting up your space for recovery can make a huge difference. You’ll want to have:

Comfortable resting space (with extra pillows, blankets, and a recliner if possible)
Loose, easy-to-remove clothing
Prescribed medications ready to go
Cold compresses, gauze, and wound care supplies
Entertainment like books, streaming, or podcasts
Help with kids, pets, or chores for at least the first few days

Planning ahead reduces stress and allows you to focus on rest and healing.

5. Arrange for Transportation and Help

You won’t be able to drive yourself home after surgery, especially if you’re under sedation or anesthesia. Arrange for:

A trusted friend or family member to drive you and stay with you for the first 24–48 hours
Help managing medications, meals, and mobility during your initial recovery

Even independent patients benefit from support in those crucial first days.

6. Mentally Prepare for the Recovery Process

While plastic surgery is exciting, recovery takes patience and care. It’s important to:

Know that swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal
Understand that final results take time—weeks or even months
Stay positive and follow post-op instructions closely
Reach out if you have concerns—your surgical team is there to support you

Having a healthy mindset going in can help you feel more confident and in control.

7. Post-Op Essentials to Stock Up On

Before surgery, stock up on these must-haves:

Medications prescribed by your surgeon
Ice packs or cold gel pads
High-protein, soft foods
Arnica or bromelain supplements (if approved)
Laxatives or stool softeners (anesthesia can slow digestion)
Button-down or zipper-front clothing

Having everything you need on hand makes recovery more comfortable.

8. Avoid These Common Mistakes

Ignoring pre-op instructions
Doing too much too soon—let your body rest!
Comparing your progress to others
Skipping follow-up appointments
Failing to ask questions or report unusual symptoms

A smooth recovery requires active participation, so stay informed and in touch with your surgeon.

Conclusion

Preparing for plastic surgery involves more than just showing up on the day of the procedure—it’s about taking care of your body, mind, and environment in the weeks beforehand. The better prepared you are, the more confident, comfortable, and successful your experience will be.

Enhance Your Body with the Best Plastic Surgery Procedures in Tijuana

At Vive Plastic Surgery, we offer a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries in Tijuana, designed to enhance your beauty and boost your confidence.

Body Enhancement and Contouring

If you’re looking to refine your shape and add volume, our BBL in Tijuana (Brazilian Butt Lift) and Liposuction (Lipo 360) procedures will help you achieve a more sculpted and harmonious figure. We also offer Tummy Tuck in Tijuana, a surgery ideal for removing excess skin and tightening the abdomen after weight loss or pregnancy.

For mothers wanting to restore their pre-pregnancy body, the Mommy Makeover (MMO in Tijuana) combines multiple procedures, such as Breast Augmentation, Breast Implants, and a tummy tuck, to bring back a youthful and firm appearance.

Facial Rejuvenation and Bone Reshaping

Our clinic specializes in advanced facial procedures, including Rhinoplasty in Tijuana to enhance nasal aesthetics and function, as well as Facelift Surgery for a more youthful appearance. We also perform Rib Sculpting and Rib Subluxation, an innovative technique to create a slimmer waistline.

Intimate and Reconstructive Procedures

We understand the importance of feeling confident in all aspects of life. That’s why we offer Vaginoplasty in Tijuana, a procedure that enhances the aesthetics and function of the intimate area.

At Vive Plastic Surgery, we combine cutting-edge technology with expert surgeons to provide natural and safe results. Contact us today for a personalized consultation!