Top 10 DOs & DON’Ts Of Cosmetic Surgery
Tips For Optimal Results & Quick Recovery From Leading Minneapolis Plastic Surgeon
Many individuals that decide to undergo plastic surgery have a lot of questions before surgery day arrives. Minneapolis area Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Ralph Bashioum and his team want to make sure that every patient feels comfortable and at ease before surgery day.
First and foremost, it is important to follow instructions. Your surgeon should give you both verbal and written pre- and post-operative instructions. These instructions are in your best interest, and you will heal better and more quickly having followed them.
Top 10 Plastic Surgery Dos & Don’ts By Dr. Ralph Bashioum
DO get a complete history and physical
- Before your surgery it is important to have review your complete medical history and have a physical by your primary care doctor. Their independent opinion is best to determine if you are healthy enough to have cosmetic surgery.
DO be careful while showering post surgery
- Be sure to shower the night before surgery, and in the morning of surgery. Washing with soap reduces bacteria on your skin, lowering your risk of infection. Gently shower the day following surgery to keep incisions clean and dry, as directed by your surgeon. DO NOT scrub the incision, just let the water gently shower the area.
DO drink plenty of water 
- Drink a gallon of water the day before surgery. After surgery, continue drinking lots of fluids, as you will feel better if you are well hydrated. Call you surgeon if you have questions. Be sure to call and speak to your doctor if you have any questions before or after surgery. You will be better informed before surgery and be reassured after surgery.
DO use ice properly 
- Applying an ice bag with water after surgery will reduce pain, swelling and bruising.
- DON’T use ice after fat graft injections, it reduces graft survival.
DON’T smoke 
- The chemicals and drugs in tobacco reduce blood flow and oxygenation of the skin. Smoking hinders healing and increases your risk for skin loss and scarring by ten fold.
DON’T take aspirin or ibuprofen
- These medications, among others reduce the function of platelets, leading to increased bleeding and bruising.
- Other medications, alcohol and herbal supplements also cause problems, so check with your doctor first.
DON’T tan your scars 
- Help minimize scars by not tanning because sun or artificial tanning may cause discoloration, making scars become more noticeable.
- For more information on minimizing surgery scars click here
DON’T judge results for 6 months 
- Swelling is a normal part of any surgery and can take some time to fully disappear. Complete healing takes a full six months and sometimes longer for final results to be apparent. Be patient.
Considering Cosmetic Surgery? Give Us A Call!
Dr. Bashioum feels that every patient should feel confident and well informed before surgery day arrives. If you have been considering cosmetic surgery, give us a call to set up you complimentary consultation. Our state-of-the-art clinic is located in Wayzata, Minnesota and Dr. Bashioum sees patients from all over the Minneapolis/St. Paul area.
We look forward to seeing you in our office soon!
