Patients who prepare well for cosmetic surgery have better outcomes. This is not a vague observation — it is borne out by every measure that matters: lower complication rates, faster recoveries, better final results. The weeks before surgery are an active phase of the project, not a passive wait. This is what to actually do.
Six Weeks Before Surgery
- Stop smoking entirely. Smoking dramatically compromises blood supply to healing tissues and is the single largest modifiable risk factor for poor outcomes. Six weeks before and six weeks after surgery is the minimum.
- Begin or maintain a stable, healthy diet. This is not the moment for crash dieting; weight stability is the priority.
- Optimise vitamin D and iron levels with the support of your GP if necessary.
- Stop or reduce alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking compromises healing and interacts with anaesthetics.
Two Weeks Before Surgery
| Action | Why |
|---|---|
| Stop aspirin, ibuprofen and other NSAIDs (unless prescribed otherwise) | These thin the blood and increase bleeding risk |
| Stop fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, ginger and turmeric supplements | All can affect bleeding |
| Confirm your travel plans home from hospital | You cannot drive yourself |
| Arrange a responsible adult to stay with you for 24–48 hours post-op | Standard safety requirement |
| Prepare your home — soft pillows, easy meals, easy-access clothing | Reduces stress in the first days |
The Week Before
- Attend your pre-operative assessment if not already done
- Confirm all medications with your surgical team
- Sleep well — banked sleep aids recovery
- Eat well, hydrate, stay active in moderation
- Tie up work matters that would otherwise create stress in recovery
- Avoid waxing, exfoliation or aggressive skincare in the surgical area
The Day Before
- Stop eating and drinking from the time specified by your anaesthetist (usually midnight before morning surgery)
- Shower or bathe; do not apply makeup, moisturiser or fake tan
- Remove nail varnish from at least one hand
- Pack a small bag: loose front-opening clothing, slippers, phone charger, prescriptions list
- An early night is more valuable than you might think
The Morning of Surgery
- Wear no makeup, no jewellery, no contact lenses
- Loose, comfortable clothing — front-opening tops and easy-on shoes are practical
- Bring a list of all current medications
- Bring photo identification
- Arrive at the time stated, not earlier (you will simply be waiting)
Mental Preparation
The most underestimated aspect of pre-operative preparation is mental. Patients who arrive in a state of high anxiety recover more slowly than patients who arrive composed. Realistic expectations, trust in your surgical team, and a clear understanding of the recovery ahead are the foundations of a settled mind on the day.
Practical Logistics Worth Planning Now
- Work cover — arrange handover well in advance
- Childcare or pet care — particularly for the first week
- Meal preparation — batch-cook soft, nutritious meals in advance
- Pharmacy run — fill prescriptions before surgery
- Recovery space — a comfortable spot with elevation support, charging points, books or screens
Dr. Ferrando’s Approach
Dr. Giovanni Ferrando, FRCS (Plast), provides every patient with a written preoperative checklist tailored to their specific procedure. His preoperative consultation is unhurried; he wants patients to leave with no unanswered questions. Patients who prepare carefully are invariably the most settled on the morning of surgery — and the happiest with their result.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stop my regular medications?
That depends on the medication. Always confirm with your surgical and anaesthetic team — never stop a regular medication without clear advice.
Is it really necessary to stop smoking?
Yes. This is the most important single change you can make. Surgeons may decline to proceed if a patient has not stopped, because the complication risk is materially higher.
What if I catch a cold the week before surgery?
Inform your surgical team immediately. Minor colds may be acceptable; significant illness usually means postponement.
How long should I plan to be off work?
Procedure-dependent — between five days for minor work and four weeks for major facial or body surgery. Your surgical team will give you a specific estimate at consultation.
References & Further Reading
Related articles from this clinic
External authoritative resources
Considering cosmetic surgery in London? Book a consultation with Dr. Giovanni Ferrando for a thorough discussion of preparation and what to expect. Explore our full range of surgical services.
