Weight:
BMI - We currently limit elective surgery to patients with a BMI of < 30. While we know bodies come in all shapes and sizes, we also know that the risks of surgery related to anesthesia, wound healing and bleeding complications are increased above a BMI > 30.
Stability:
You should be at your ideal weight and stable for several months before undergoing cosmetic surgery. Weight gain or loss of more than approximately 10 pounds can lead to a less desirable cosmetic outcome. This includes weight loss via diet and exercise, bariatric surgery or weight loss medications. Cosmetic surgery is not a weight loss surgery.
GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications:
These medications have been a very effective tool to assist in weight loss; however, they do also come with side effects and risks, especially related to anesthesia and healing. Rapid weight loss can lead to poor skin quality and potential fluid collections which will prolong healing. You will need to discontinue these medications two weeks prior to surgery and can resume after. We ask that you increase your nutrition to include extra protein (1.2 grams per kilogram of body weight per day), vitamin C and zinc before and after surgery. These vitamins work together to rebuild damaged tissues, control inflammation and fight off infections.
Activity:
After surgery we ask that you follow our activity restrictions and guidelines very carefully. This includes having a care team at home to help with things like dog walking, cooking, cleaning, laundry, and childcare. Plan for extra help with chores for about 3-4 weeks after surgery. You are allowed to walk and enjoy time outdoors but limit any activity that raises your heart rate and stress levels.
Substance Use:
NICOTINE – Nicotine use by cigarette, vape, patch or gum severely affects the body’s ability to heal wounds. It is so problematic that we require you to abstain from all nicotine containing products at least 4 weeks before surgery and require a negative nicotine test prior to surgery to assure the best outcome.
Smoking Marijuana Or Other Drugs:
While these drugs do not contain nicotine, anything that burns produces carbon monoxide which has similar negative effects on wound healing. Edible or tincture marijuana is okay.
Alcohol:
Professional guidelines recommend no more than 1 drink per day or 7 drinks per week for women and no more than 2 drinks per day or 14 drinks per week for men. Excessive alcohol affects every system in the body and decreases your body’s ability to heal. Please limit your alcohol use to recommend use before and after surgery.
Breat Feeding:
Breast feeding is a beautiful way to bond with your baby; however, a breast that continues to produce milk will be more likely to lead to an infection. Because of this, we want you to stop nursing at least 6 months prior to any cosmetic surgery including non-breast surgery.