Optimizing Surgical Procedures with Preoperative Steps

While the surgeon’s skill is crucial, a patient’s adherence to preoperative steps significantly impacts the success of any surgery. According to Dr. Konstantin Vasyukevic, a New York-based plastic surgeon, surgery preparation can be mentally and physically taxing. Understanding and following preoperative instructions can help minimize anxiety and stress levels for patients. To shed light on the importance of these steps, Dr. Vasyukevic and Dr. Peter Lee, CEO and chief surgeon at Wave Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Laser Center in Los Angeles, California, have provided valuable tips to Fox News Digital.

Here are their recommendations:

1. Quit smoking for at least four weeks before surgery if you are a smoker

   Dr. Lee warns that smoking constricts blood vessels, reducing blood flow. Insufficient oxygen delivery to surgical sites impairs wound healing. Chemicals in tobacco hinder the body’s ability to fight off infections, leading to complications like delayed wound healing, wound infections, and scarring. It’s important to note that vaping poses similar risks.

2. Exercise to prepare your body for surgery and recovery

   Regular exercise helps improve cardiovascular health, lung capacity, and overall physical endurance. It allows the body to better handle the stress of surgery and promotes faster post-operative recovery. Muscle tone and flexibility aid in quicker mobilization after certain procedures, reducing the risk of complications like blood clots or pneumonia. Exercise also increases the number of red blood cells, enhancing oxygen transport and improving postoperative recovery. Active individuals tend to have better immune systems, which is essential for fighting off infections.

3. Follow a healthy diet rich in protein

   Dr. Vasyukevic emphasizes that protein is crucial for optimal wound healing capacity after surgery. Dr. Lee adds that a protein-rich diet provides the necessary building blocks for effective repair of surgical sites. Additionally, vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and zinc contribute to collagen synthesis and immune function, respectively, which are vital for recovery. Dr. Lee recommends consuming lean meats, egg products, dairy products, nuts and seeds, tofu and tempeh, and bean products to ensure an adequate protein intake.

4. Avoid alcohol and supplements

   Dr. Vasyukevic advises stopping alcohol consumption and avoiding herbal or over-the-counter supplements at least two weeks before surgery. Alcohol thins the blood, potentially interfering with blood flow and clotting during and after surgery, leading to complications. Many supplements can interact with medication, affect clotting mechanisms, and impact blood pressure. For instance, supplements like ginkgo biloba, ginseng, garlic, and St. John’s wort can increase bleeding risks and interfere with anesthesia.

5. Consult a specialist if you have underlying medical conditions

   If you have heart disease, diabetes, respiratory issues, or other medical conditions, extra evaluations from specialists may be necessary to determine your suitability for surgery. These assessments can include blood tests, ECGs, chest X-rays, or consultations with specialists. Ensuring a patient is medically fit for surgery minimizes the risk of complications during and after the procedure. The type of surgery and the nature of the medical problem will determine the need for blood work and medical clearance, advised by the surgeon.

For more articles on health-related topics, visit www.foxnews.com/health.

Written by Melissa Rudy, health editor and member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.

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