A Plastic Surgeon’s Perspective on Preparing for the Best Possible Outcome
Surgery is a partnership between surgeon and patient. While meticulous surgical technique is essential, what patients do before and after surgery can significantly influence healing and results. Here are five things I would never do around the time of surgery, and I advise my patients to avoid them as well.
1. Ignore Instructions Before & After Surgery
Your surgical instructions are designed to optimize safety and recovery. Whether it’s stopping certain medications, avoiding strenuous activities and exercise, or wearing the right garments, it all matters.
2. Use Nicotine in Any Form
Smoking, vaping, nicotine pouches, and nicotine gum can all impair blood flow and oxygen delivery to healing tissues. This increases the risk of poor wound healing, infection, and unfavorable scarring. If I were having surgery, nicotine would be completely off-limits. I tell my patients to abstain from using any kind of nicotine for at least 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery to avoid higher risks of complications.
3. Assume “Natural” Supplements Are Always Safe
Many herbal supplements can increase bleeding risk or interfere with anesthesia. Common examples include fish oil, vitamin E, garlic supplements, ginkgo biloba, and turmeric. Always discuss every supplement and medication with your surgeon before surgery.
4. Push Through Recovery Too Quickly
One of the most common mistakes patients make is feeling well enough to resume normal activities before their body is ready. While I am happy my patient’s downtime is minimal and don’t have pain, early overexertion can increase complications like bleeding, wound issues, swelling, prolong recovery, and compromise results. Healing is not a race, rather, it is an investment in your outcome.
5. Compare My Recovery to Someone Else’s
Everybody is different, and every body is different. Factors such as age, genetics, procedure type, and overall health all influence recovery. Comparing your progress to someone else, or even your close friend or relative often creates unnecessary anxiety. The most meaningful benchmark is your own steady improvement over time. Every patient heals differently.
The Bottom Line
The best surgical outcomes are achieved when excellent surgical care is paired with thoughtful preparation and recovery. Following your surgeon’s guidance, prioritizing healing, and exercising patience can make a significant difference in both your recovery experience and your final result.
Meet Dr. Brian Bassiri-Tehrani
Dr. BBT is a double board-certified plastic surgeon, boarded by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He has advanced fellowship training in Aesthetic Surgery and reconstruction after cancer removal. He has hospital privileges at Lenox Hill Hospital, Englewood Hospital, Hackensack University Medical Center and Hudson Regional Hospital.
When you meet with Dr. Bassiri, he will guide you through what options are available, what the pros and cons are for each possibility and what to expect after surgery. He gives you the tools to make your own decision, a fully informed decision. An informed patient is an empowered patient.
To make an appointment, call the office at (212) 540-6868, or click here to make an appointment.
