Are you booked in for breast surgery and wondering how to prepare for it? Whether you’re undergoing breast augmentation, reduction, or any other procedure, it’s important to be ready for the surgery. Not only will this help you feel reassured and clear on what to expect, but it will also ensure all health and safety aspects are covered.
When you have your breast surgery consultation, your surgeon will go through these points with you. However, having them to hand before your consultation can help you feel as mentally and physically prepared as possible.
Let’s explore the key areas of preparing for your breast surgery in Newcastle, where the team will be with you every step of the way.
Why is preparing for breast surgery important?
As with any cosmetic procedure, breast surgery comes with some physical risks. With this in mind, it’s important to ensure your body will be in the best possible condition to recover well.
Breast reduction or augmentation surgery preparation also covers your mental readiness and emotional well-being. The procedure will alter your body, and it’s vital to feel confident, informed, and emotionally prepared for those changes — both physically and psychologically.
The advice we’ve put together below applies to breast augmentation surgery as well as preparation for a breast lift, breast reduction, breast implant removal, and a range of other surgical procedures.
Physical preparation for breast augmentation surgery
Whether you’re undergoing breast augmentation, breast asymmetry surgery, armpit fat removal, or another type of procedure, you must be in good health.
- Most breast surgeons will require you to stop smoking before your surgery. We ask that you quit smoking at least 8 weeks before the procedure and stop using a nicotine vape at least 4 weeks before.
- You’ll need to stop taking aspirin or anti-inflammatory medication at least 10 days before your surgery, and it’s important to speak with your surgeon about any other medication you are on. They can offer advice on what you can and cannot take ahead of your breast surgery.
- It’s best to avoid vigorous exercise the day before and on the day of your surgery.
What to pack before breast augmentation surgery (or any other form of breast surgery)
The main thing to remember when packing a bag for your breast surgery is to bring items that will keep you as comfortable as possible.
When you undergo breast augmentation in Newcastle at our clinic, you may have an overnight stay in our ward, where our dedicated team will focus on facilitating your enhanced recovery.
For your stay, we recommend packing:
- Comfy nightwear, including pyjamas or a nightdress, a dressing gown, and slippers.
- A wash bag and toiletries.
- Any required medication (keep them in the original packaging so your medical team has a clear overview).
- Loose-fitting clothing that’s easy to put on. Clothes that button up at the front are a good option.
- Flat slip-on shoes.
- A supportive post-operative bra (please see our guide to the best bra options for breast surgery recovery for more advice on this).
- Your phone and a charger.
- A water bottle with a straw, so it’s easier to stay hydrated when lying down or propped up.
You may also wish to bring books and magazines, and headphones for listening to music or podcasts. It’s also a good idea to bring snacks, as you will likely be hungry after your surgery.
What to do the day before breast augmentation surgery
There are a few actions you can take the day before your breast surgery to help ensure everything runs smoothly the next day.
- Have a bath or shower the evening before your procedure — it can help you feel fresh and ready to go, as you won’t be able to wash fully for a few days after your breast surgery.
- Avoid drinking any alcohol.
- Stock up on some snacks and quick-to-prepare meals so you can have easy access to nutritious food after your surgery.
- Remove any nail polish (bare nails make it easier for the anaesthetist to keep an eye on your vital signs using a pulse oximeter).
- You may be asked to fast ahead of the surgery — this is something your surgeon will be able to provide details and guidance on during any pre-operative assessments.
Preparing for breast surgery: On the day
On the day of your breast surgery, it’s natural to feel a little nervous. Try to keep yourself as calm as possible.
Adam Critchley and his team will be here to welcome and reassure you when you arrive for your augmentation, breast reduction, or breast lift in Newcastle.
We recommend arranging for a loved one to drop you off and pick you up again — it’s important to note that you won’t be able to drive for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
For advice on what happens after your surgery, please feel free to read our guide on the do’s and don’ts of breast surgery recovery.
Considering breast surgery in Newcastle? Feel prepared with support from Adam Critchley
With decades of experience and a holistic approach to breast surgery, our lead surgeon, Adam Critchley, will ensure you’re in safe hands.
When you book breast augmentation, implant removal or a breast reduction in Newcastle with us, we’ll make sure you have everything you need ahead of the procedure and throughout your recovery. We provide thorough consultations and pre-surgery checks to make sure you get the service that’s right for you.
Take a look at our full list of breast surgery procedures and surgery prices, and please don’t hesitate to get in touch to arrange a consultation or to discuss any queries you may have with breast consultant Adam.
