Instructions Before Abdominoplasty

• Do not take ASPIRIN (Anacin, Bufferin, Excedrin, etc.) or ANTI-INFLAMMATORIES (Advil, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Motrin, etc.), or any medication containing these drugs for two weeks before and after surgery. These will promote bleeding and bruising. Tylenol (Acetaminophen) is OK for pain/headache. Also, do not take any vitamins, herbal supplements (Ginko Biloba, St. John’s Wort, etc.), diet or energy pills, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, or fish oils for 2 weeks before and after surgery. Also do not take any unprescribed or recreational drugs of any kind. Make sure your doctor knows all of your prescription medications.
• Do not drink any ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES for two weeks before and after surgery. Alcohol promotes bleeding.
• Do not SMOKE CIGARETTES/Marijuana or “chew” any other tobacco product, for at least four weeks before and after surgery. Tobacco products constrict blood flow to the skin causing delayed healing and higher instances of skin necrosis (skin death.) Second hand smoke is important to avoid also.
• Arrange for help: Arrange to have someone drive you to and from your surgery and to your post operative appointments for the first two weeks. You must also arrange to have someone stay with you for the first 3-4 days or longer, if needed. Child care should be arranged if needed. You should plan on 6 weeks of healing time where you can do no exercise, lifting, or other movements that strain the abdominal area.
• Clothing on the day of surgery: Wear something very loose fitting that is easy to get on and off. A moo-moo type dress is preferable for women or very loose fitting “sweats” for women or men and slip-on shoes.
• Diet before surgery: Do not eat or drink anything (including water) for eight hours prior to your surgery except a sip of water to take the medications given to you by our office and your approved prescription medications.
• Bring warm socks: Because it is cool in our operating room, we recommend warm socks to keep your feet warm. If you tend to get cold hands, mittens can also be worn.

Preoperative medications: At your preoperative visit, you will be given medications in small white packets to take before and after surgery. You will be asked about all other prescription medications and any over-the-counter medications/vitamins/herbs you currently take. Be prepared to give the name, dose, and reason you are taking prescription medication. You can usually take your normal daily medications (except aspirin or anti-inflammatories). These will be discussed with you by the doctor or by the PA at your pre op appointment.

Vionex Disinfectant Soap: A vial containing disinfectant soap will be given to you to shower with before you come in for surgery. You only need to use this in the areas of treatment. Do not apply any lotions, creams, talcs, etc., to those areas after you have cleaned your skin.