Congratulations! You’ve made the decision to schedule your rhinoplasty surgery. It’s likely something you’ve been thinking about for a while. Before you head in for your procedure, though, it’s important to make sure you take care of some essential things. Here’s what to keep in mind as you get ready for your surgery.
Get Your Medical Testing Done
In most cases, you’ll have two meetings with Dr. Diktaban before your operation. The first is a consultation and the second is a preoperative meeting.
During your consultation, Dr. Diktaban might recommend you have some medical tests done, such as blood work, X-rays, or an EEG. Have those tests done right away. This allows time for your results to be sent to the office before your preoperative meeting so Dr. Diktaban can review them and make any necessary adjustments to your surgical plan.
Have Your Prescriptions Filled Before Surgery
After surgery, you’ll need to take some different medications. It’s ideal to have these already filled and ready to go before your surgery. That way, you don’t have to worry about it on the way home.
Your medications usually include a painkiller, an antibiotic, and one or two anti-nausea medications. If you have them already filled, you can go straight home instead of stopping by the pharmacy. Start taking them as directed as soon as you get home.
Stop Smoking
Smoking increases your chances of developing an infection after surgery. The healing process will be harder and can take more time if you smoke. Before surgery is the perfect time to stop smoking. If this is difficult on your own, Dr. Diktaban can help you find the best methods for you.
Select a Caregiver
You’ll need someone to drive you home after surgery, and you should have someone stay with you for at least the first night. Ask a family member or close friend to act as your caregiver.
If you’re unable to arrange for this, we can recommend your options with home nursing services that can help you through the first day or two. We always consider a family member or friend preferable to a nurse, but we understand your circumstances might not allow for it.
Cook Some Meals in Advance
You’re likely not going to feel like cooking for a few days after surgery. In the days leading up to the procedure, it’s a good time to prepare some meals that you can freeze or refrigerate. Make them simple and easy to heat up in the microwave. That way you can focus on recovery instead of worrying about what’s for dinner.
Schedule a Consultation
Preparing in advance for your rhinoplasty will give you the best outcome possible. To get started on your rhinoplasty options and learn more, we invite you to contact our New York City office by calling or filling out our online form.
Dr. Theodore Diktaban, MD FACS, a double board-certified plastic surgeon with 35+ years of experience, specializes in safe and subtle cosmetic treatments, enhancing natural beauty and boosting self-confidence in the Upper East Side and New York City.
