Preparing for surgery
From six weeks before to the morning itself: what to stop, what to arrange and what to bring.
The weeks before
Small things that make the operation safer and recovery easier.
Six weeks before
Stop smoking and vaping, including nicotine patches: nicotine slows healing. Your surgeon may postpone if you have not.
Two weeks before
Stop the medicines and supplements on your list (some painkillers, fish oil, herbal remedies), only as your surgeon says.
The week before
Arrange a lift home and someone to stay the first night. Fill the fridge, and put what you use often at waist height.
The night before
Nothing to eat after midnight, water until the time on your letter. Shower; no creams, make-up or nail varnish.
The morning
Loose clothes that open at the front. Leave jewellery at home. Bring your medicines and your compression garment if you have one.
What to bring on the day
- Your letter, your medicines in their boxes and your glasses
- Loose, front-opening clothes and flat shoes
- A phone charger and something to read
- The name and number of the person collecting you
Book a first consultation
Sixty minutes with the surgeon who would operate. Nothing is booked on the day, and the fee is taken off the surgery fee if you go ahead (sample).