How should you prepare for Breast Implant Revision?

Patients should prepare thoroughly before a major procedure such as breast implant revision surgery. For patients considering this cosmetic surgery procedure, it is advisable to take the time to make meticulous preparations for the pre and post-surgical phases.

The preparation will not only benefit the patient medically but also offer them a more relaxed and comfortable surgical and recovery experience. Reliable plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim provides breast implant revision surgery to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and surrounding communities in this part of America.

Surgery Blood Work

Blood work is the first step in preparation for breast implant revision surgery. Prior to the procedure, the surgeon will ensure that the patient’s creatine, hemoglobin, electrolytes, and blood clotting ability (INR) are within the normal range.

If the patient is beyond 50 years of age, she will also require an electrocardiogram (ECG /EKG) to make sure that her heart is functioning properly. If there is something amiss in the blood work or the EKG is abnormal, the breast surgeon will discuss further steps with the patient.

Two Weeks Prior to the Surgery

The breast implant revision plastic surgery preparation starts two weeks before the procedure. If the patient starts the preparation process earlier, they can avoid the last minute rush. Timely preparation will also ensure that the required arrangements are made well in advance.

The patient may need to arrange for the following two weeks before the revision surgery:

• Someone responsible to drive them back home from the surgical venue on the day of the revision procedure.
• A family member or friend to remain with them for a minimum of 24 hours right after the surgery.
• Childcare, if required.
• Pet care, if required.

The patient will also need to undertake some changes two weeks prior to the breast implant revision surgery, including:

Avoid Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol causes blood thinning which can lead to a prolonged healing period and increase bruising. Instead, the patient should drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated and nourished.

Quit Smoking

Nicotine will extend the recovery period and increase the possibility of post-operative complications. It is advisable for the patient to stop smoking entirely to avoid any consequent medical issues in the future.

Avoid Aspirin or Ibuprofen

These medications affect the body’s ability to clot blood. In case the patient has body pain or a headache, they can use Tylenol (acetaminophen) instead of these drugs.

Discontinue Herbal Supplements

The patient will also need to discontinue herbal supplements for some time. Many herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba, ginseng, St. John’s wort, green tea extract, and garlic can interfere with anesthesia. Therefore, the patient will need to stop the intake of herbal supplements two weeks before the procedure.

Night Prior to the Revision Surgery

In preparation for breast implant revision surgery, the patient should undertake these important tasks on the night prior to the procedure:

• Wash their hair and use an antibacterial soap on their body.
• Not eat or drink eight hours before the scheduled time of the surgery (including water and chewing gum).

Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and other towns and suburbs in this section of California for breast revision surgery.