Planning ahead is important when preparing for your breast reconstruction surgery, especially when it comes to work and personal life. From requesting time off from work, prepping meals, and preparing your home for a comfortable recovery – there are many things to check off your list before heading to the OR.
Your healthcare team will help you prepare and ensure you have all your questions answered, because the more details you have taken care of, the less stress you’ll experience during your recovery.
Take a look as Dr. Whipple shares five common questions and answers she gets from beauty lovers before their breast reconstruction surgery at PRMA:
Can I Get A Gel Manicure or Dip Manicure On My Nails Before Surgery?
It’s best to leave the manicure to celebrate post-op when you’re feeling better after your reconstruction. The anesthesiologists put a special oxygen saturation monitor on your finger during surgery and the nail polish (yes, gel and dip) can interfere with their device. Clear or light nail-colored polish is best; however, our anesthesiologists are fabulous and usually able to get an oxygen read even if you forget and show up with nail polish.
Pedicure?
Enjoy! There’s no issue with having toenail polish on in surgery.
Can I Have False Eyelashes?
As someone who has done eyelash extensions in the past, I know how expensive and delicate they can be. I would recommend waiting until after surgery as the anesthesiologist will sometimes put an eye mask on you while you’re asleep. I wouldn’t want those beautiful lashes to get messed up!
Should All Of My Piercings Be Removed?
Yes. Any jewelry, including piercings, should be removed for your safety.
Are There Specific Things I Should/ Shouldn’t Do With My Hair On The Morning Of Surgery?
You want your hair to be in a comfortable hairstyle, as we will have your wear a surgical hat throughout the procedure. We recommend wearing your hair in a loose, high bun. I also recommend investing in some dry shampoo pre-op for a couple of reasons… Number one, you won’t feel like showering after a big surgery. Number two, for some surgeries (especially implant based) we ask that you don’t shower for a few days while you heal.
Learn More About Breast Reconstruction Surgery Today!
To learn more about breast reconstruction surgery and how it can help you, contact one of our breast reconstruction specialists today. You can schedule a consultation here or contact our office at (210) 692-1181.
“Set realistic, attainable goals after your surgery. Your body is going to feel different now than it did before surgery. If you are doing it simply to lose weight or get back into a certain dress or pant size you may be setting yourself up for failure. Reset your compass.”
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