Why do I need to avoid Tobacco and Alcohol?
Smoking and Alcohol can have negative effect on your recovery from surgery. You can read more about the effects of smoking here and alcohol here.
Why do I have to leave the clinic in a car/taxi?
As you are undergoing a surgical procedure for your safety it is important not to be in a position where your recovery can be compromised. Public Transport has a higher risk of knocks and bumps and carries addition complications should you feel unwell.
Why do I have to remove my nail varnish?
During surgery, your oxygen levels will be monitored and one of the most common ways of doing this is with a probe placed on your finger. Nail polish and acrylic nails can interfere with this, so you may be asked to remove the polish or acrylics before you arrive. Some surgeons might agree to letting you keep your acrylics on, so long as you remove one from each hand, but it’s best to discuss with the clinic prior to admission.
Why do I have to remove my jewellery?
A major concern during surgery is the effect metal has on electrocautery, the technique routinely used to electrically seal bleeding vessels. Wearing metal jewellery may cause an electrical arc, resulting in mild to severe burns.
Why can’t I wear make up?
While you are under anaesthesia, you don’t have a blink reflex so small particles of makeup (especially mascara) can injure your eyes. Also, makeup, hair products and nail polish can be flammable and should not be worn when you are having surgery.
Why do I have to avoid ibuprofen and aspirin?
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs (Aspirin)may affect the way platelets work and could interfere with normal blood clotting. Blood clotting is very important during surgery, so many doctors advise patients to stop taking ibuprofen and other NSAIDs.
Why do I have to stop taking vitamins and supplements?
Vitamins and supplements can effect your body in different ways so general rule when it comes to cosmetic surgery is to steer clear of taking vitamins and supplements pre-op to minimize bleeding, which, in turn, will help to keep bruising and swelling at a minimum, too
Why do I have to avoid any hair removal on surgery site before procedure?
Anything that compromises the integrity of the skin can increase the risk of wound infection. If the surgeon needs to remove hair they will do so.
Why do I have to stop taking my contraceptive pill?
Patients taking oral contraceptives have an increased risk of postoperative venous thromboembolism. We recommend that patients taking oestrogen-containing oral contraceptives should switch to alternative contraceptive methods 4-6 weeks prior to surgery and then restart OCPs after the first menses occurs at least 2 weeks after regaining full mobility following surgery.