Los Angeles Rhinoplasty in Beverly Hills - Revision Rhinoplasty

What to Avoid Before Surgery

Smoking

If you're a smoker, one of the most important things you can do to ensure the safety of your procedure and to speed the healing process is to stop smoking. Most surgeons will recommend that you quit smoking two to four weeks prior to your procedure and for two to four weeks following it. To help you kick the habit, some surgeons provide referrals to smoking cessation programs or offer prescriptions for nicotine replacement products.

Certain Medications, Vitamins, Supplements, and Herbs

Before undergoing any kind of surgery, including rhinoplasty, you'll be advised to avoid certain medications. Some medications, including some prescription drugs, vitamins, supplements, and herbs, contain elements that thin the blood and prevent it from clotting normally; this can lead to excessive bleeding during or after surgery. In general, drugs to be avoided include anything containing aspirin or ibuprofen as well as prescription blood thinners, such as coumadin. You should also stop taking vitamin E supplements, diet pills, and many herbal remedies. A number of herbal remedies not only thin the blood but may also interfere with or enhance the effects of anesthesia, which can lead to a dangerous
situation in the operating room.

Your surgeon will provide you with a list of medications to avoid. If you take something that isn't on the list, don't assume that it's okay to continue taking it. Ask your doctor about it.

Alcohol

It's important to avoid drinking alcohol prior to your rhinoplasty procedure. Your surgeon may recommend avoiding alcoholic beverages for as little as a few days or for as much as a few weeks prior to your surgery. Why? Like some medications, alcohol can thin the blood, which can lead to unnecessary blood loss during surgery. In addition, alcohol can have a dangerous effect on anesthesia or in combination with some of the medications your surgeon has prescribed.

Overexposure to the Sun, Tanning Beds, and Sunlamps

It's critical to avoid overexposure to the sun, tanning beds, and sunlamps prior to your rhinoplasty procedure. Overexposure to the sun brings more blood to the surface of the skin and can lead to increased bleeding during surgery. If your nose is sunburned, puffy, or inflamed, surgeons won't perform your procedure and you'll have to reschedule it.

The Night Before and the Day of Surgery

Follow Your Hygiene Instructions

Your surgeon may give you specific instructions on washing your hair and your face the night before or the morning of your procedure. Be sure to follow these instructions closely. Most likely, you'll be asked to refrain from using any kind of hairspray or hair styling product after washing your hair. Likewise, you'll be instructed not to put on makeup after washing your face.

Remember to Fast

For your safety, it's very important to avoid eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your procedure. This includes chewing gum, breath mints, and any kind of hard candy. The reason you're asked not to eat after midnight is to avoid problems such as vomiting while you are anesthetized. If your surgery is in the afternoon and you aren't going to be under general anesthesia, you may be instructed to eat a light breakfast no less than six hours before your procedure. You may be allowed to take a few sips of water in the morning to take any necessary medications, but check with your surgeon about doing so.

What to Wear to the Surgery Center

When choosing what to wear on the day of surgery, remember that comfort is key. Most surgeons advise wearing a shirt, sweater, or sweatshirt that zips or buttons up the front so that you won't have to pull it over your tender nose after surgery. For additional comfort, choose pants with an elastic waistband and shoes that are easy to slip on.

What Not to Wear

You'll be advised not to wear any makeup, wigs, or jewelry on the day of your procedure. It's best to leave all of your jewelry, including wedding rings, earrings, and watches, at home. You'll be asked to remove all piercings as well as any contact lenses or eyeglasses prior to surgery. If you wear eyeglasses, you won't be able wear them for about a week after surgery. In some instances, you may be allowed to tape them to your forehead in order to protect your nose. (The bridge of the glasses is taped to the forehead, and the ear pieces rest on the ears.) Discuss issues involving your eyeglasses with your surgeon before surgery.

If You Get Sick Before Surgery

If you get a cold, a sore throat, or an infection prior to your scheduled surgery, contact your surgeon immediately. You may be instructed to begin taking antibiotics prior to your surgery. In some cases, you may need to reschedule your procedure.

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