Dr Scott J Turner, FRACS Specialist Plastic Surgeon, has developed comprehensive pre-operative protocols based on years of specialised training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. With clinics serving patients across Sydney, Brisbane, and Canberra, Dr Turner and his team are committed to providing thorough patient education at every stage of the surgical journey.
Thorough preparation is one of the most critical factors that may influence surgical outcomes. This evidence-based guide outlines the essential steps to take before and after your plastic surgery procedure, with particular emphasis on the factors that have the most significant potential impact on healing and recovery.
Before Surgery: Essential Pre-Operative Preparation
The weeks leading up to your surgery are critical for preparing your body for the procedure ahead. Following these guidelines may reduce the risk of complications and support your recovery process.
General Health and Nutrition for Surgical Healing
Your overall health status plays a significant role in surgical outcomes. Proper nutrition may support tissue repair and wound healing. In the weeks before your procedure, focus on the following areas:
- Protein intake: Aim for approximately 1.2-1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily to support tissue repair
- Hydration: Maintain adequate fluid intake of approximately 2-3 litres of water daily in the two weeks preceding surgery
- Micronutrients: Vitamin C and zinc may support collagen synthesis and wound healing. Discuss supplementation with Dr Turner during your consultation
- Rest and stress management: Adequate sleep and reduced stress may help support your immune system
- Personalised recommendations: Dr Turner may provide tailored pre-operative instructions based on your individual procedure and health status
Weight and BMI Considerations
Body Mass Index (BMI) is one of several factors considered during surgical planning. Patients within a healthy weight range may experience fewer complications and more predictable healing. For patients considering body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty or post-pregnancy surgery, maintaining a stable weight for at least six months before surgery is typically recommended.
Weight considerations vary by procedure. Dr Turner will discuss individualised guidelines during your consultation.
Medication Management: A Critical Consideration
Complete disclosure of all medications is essential for your safety. This includes prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some substances can increase bleeding risk or interfere with anaesthesia.
Blood-Thinning Medications (Stop 10-14 Days Before Surgery)
- Aspirin and aspirin-containing products
- Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Nurofen, Advil)
- Vitamin E supplements
Herbal Supplements (Discontinue 2 Weeks Before Surgery)
Many herbal supplements may increase bleeding risk or interact with anaesthesia:
- Fish oil and omega-3 supplements
- Ginger, garlic, and ginkgo biloba supplements
- St. John’s Wort
- Turmeric and curcumin supplements
Other Medications to Discuss
- Cold medications containing pseudoephedrine (stop 7 days before)
- Diet pills and appetite suppressants (stop 2 weeks before)
Important: Do not stop prescription blood thinners, heart medications, or blood pressure medications without specific instructions from Dr Turner. Paracetamol (Panadol) is generally considered safe for pain relief before surgery. Always disclose your complete medication list during your consultation.
Nicotine Cessation: A Non-Negotiable Requirement
Nicotine in any form may significantly compromise your surgical outcome and recovery. This is one of the most critical factors in pre-operative preparation. Research indicates that nicotine use may increase complication risk by up to 300% in some procedures.
All nicotine products must be avoided entirely for at least 4-6 weeks before and after surgery, including:
- Cigarettes
- E-cigarettes and vaping products
- Nicotine patches
- Nicotine gums
Nicotine reduces blood flow to tissues by causing vasoconstriction, which may significantly impair wound healing. This is particularly important for procedures with extensive tissue dissection, such as facelift surgery, neck lift procedures, abdominoplasty, and breast surgery, where the skin relies on a delicate blood supply for proper healing.
For more information about potential surgical complications, see our guide on risks and complications after facelift surgery.
Alcohol Consumption Guidelines
Reducing alcohol consumption before surgery is recommended for several important reasons:
- Alcohol may increase bleeding and bruising by affecting blood clotting
- It can interact with anaesthesia and post-operative pain medications
- Alcohol may impair immune function, potentially increasing infection risk
- It can contribute to dehydration, which may complicate recovery
Patients should reduce alcohol consumption at least 2 weeks before surgery and avoid it completely for at least 48 hours before the procedure. Alcohol should only be resumed after approval from Dr Turner and after completing all pain medications.
Sun Exposure and Skin Protection
For patients undergoing facial procedures such as facelifts, upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or brow lifts, sun protection is an important consideration. UV exposure may darken scars and cause hyperpigmentation.
Minimise sun exposure on the treatment area for at least 4 weeks before surgery and throughout recovery. When outdoors, use SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed areas and wear protective clothing, including hats and sunglasses. Sun protection should continue for at least 12 months after surgery to support scar healing.
The Week Before Surgery: Final Preparations
As your surgery date approaches, complete the following preparations:
- Transportation: Confirm arrangements to and from the clinic (Sydney, Brisbane, or Canberra)
- Support system: Arrange for a responsible adult to stay with you for at least 24 hours post-operatively
- Home preparation: Set up your recovery environment (see detailed guidance below)
- Documentation: Complete all pre-operative paperwork and consent forms
- Final consultation: Attend any remaining pre-operative appointments
- Rest and nutrition: Continue eating well, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep
After Surgery: Recovery Preparation and Support
Planning for your recovery period is just as important as pre-operative preparation. Having the right support systems and supplies in place before surgery can make a significant difference to your comfort and healing process. For detailed recovery guidance, see our comprehensive guide on recovery after facelift surgery.
Your Support System: An Essential Requirement
Having appropriate support after surgery is a requirement, not a recommendation. This is a safety requirement for all patients undergoing sedation or general anaesthesia. A responsible adult must be available to:
- Transport you home from the clinic (you will not be permitted to drive yourself or use public transport alone)
- Stay with you for at least the first 24 hours after surgery
- Receive and understand post-operative care instructions
- Assist with medications and monitor for any concerns requiring medical attention
Setting Up Your Recovery Environment
Before your surgery date, prepare your home environment to support comfortable healing:
Practical organisation: Position frequently used items such as phone, medications, and water at waist-to-shoulder height to avoid excessive stretching or bending. Keep emergency contact numbers in an easily accessible location.
Comfortable clothing: Choose loose, comfortable clothing that does not need to be pulled over your head. Button-down or zip-up tops are often easier, particularly for facial and breast procedures.
Elevation and positioning: Prepare extra pillows for proper elevation and positioning. For facelift and neck lift patients, head elevation during rest is typically recommended to help manage swelling.
Footwear: Have slip-on shoes available to avoid bending over to tie laces.
Meals: Stock up on healthy, easy-to-prepare meals or arrange meal delivery for the first few days of recovery.
Recovery Time and Returning to Work
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure performed. As a general guide, most facial procedures such as facelifts, blepharoplasty, and rhinoplasty require approximately 1-3 weeks before returning to work, though this depends on the extent of surgery and your specific occupation. Dr Turner will provide specific guidance on when you may be able to return to work and resume normal activities during your consultation. Scheduling adequate time away from work and other commitments allows your body to focus on healing.
For more complex procedures such as deep plane facelifts, vertical facelifts, combined face and neck lift procedures, or breast reduction surgery, longer recovery periods are typically recommended. Planning ahead for assistance with household tasks, childcare, and pet care can help reduce stress during this time.
Essential Recovery Supplies Checklist
Gather the following items before your surgery date:
- Extra pillows for elevation and positioning
- Comfortable, loose, front-opening clothing
- Ice packs or heat packs as recommended by Dr Turner
- Required wound care supplies
- A thermometer to monitor for fever
- Slip-on shoes
- Any prescribed compression garments (purchased before surgery)
- Written schedule for post-operative medications
Procedure-Specific Preparation Considerations
While the guidelines above apply to most plastic surgery procedures, some surgeries have additional preparation requirements:
Facial Surgery Preparation
For patients undergoing facelift surgery, mini facelift, deep plane facelift, neck lift, or deep neck lift procedures, additional considerations include arranging for head elevation during sleep and having soft foods available for the first few days when jaw movement may be limited.
Men considering male face and neck lift procedures should discuss beard management with Dr Turner, as shaving may need to be avoided in certain areas during healing.
Eye Surgery Preparation
Patients scheduled for upper blepharoplasty, lower blepharoplasty, or brow lift surgery should arrange for lubricating eye drops and cold compresses. Reading materials and screen time may be limited during initial recovery.
Nose Surgery Preparation
For rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, or septoplasty patients, nasal breathing may be temporarily compromised. Having saline spray available and preparing for mouth breathing during sleep is recommended.
Breast Surgery Preparation
Patients undergoing breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, or breast lift with implants should have front-opening bras and supportive garments ready. Arm movement may be restricted initially, so prepare by placing frequently needed items within easy reach.
Body Contouring Preparation
For abdominoplasty and post-pregnancy surgery patients, compression garments are typically required. Setting up a recliner or arranging pillows for a semi-reclined sleeping position may help with comfort during recovery.
Contact Dr Scott J Turner’s Clinics
Our team is available to support you throughout your surgical journey. If you have any questions about preparing for your procedure, please contact the clinic nearest to you:
Sydney Clinic
Sydney Clinic
Phone: 1300 437 758
Brisbane Clinic
Brisbane Clinic
Phone: 1300 437 758
Canberra Clinic
Canberra Clinic
Phone: 1300 437 758
For out-of-town patients: View our interstate and international patient information.
For emergencies after surgery: Contact the hospital where your procedure was performed, and staff will be able to reach Dr Turner directly.
Learn more about Dr Scott J Turner, FRACS Specialist Plastic Surgeon, or contact us to schedule a consultation.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual circumstances vary, and specific recommendations should be discussed with Dr Turner during your consultation. All surgical procedures carry risks, and outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Results vary between individuals.
