What’s Best to Do Before Cosmetic Surgery: Your Pre-Op Success Plan

Preparing the right way before cosmetic surgery is one of the smartest things you can do to protect your investment and get the best possible results. Here’s a simple, research-backed checklist to set yourself up for success.

Eating a high protein diet prior to surgery will help with recovery

1. Get a Full Medical Checkup

Before surgery, you need medical clearance to make sure you're healthy enough for anesthesia and healing. Bloodwork and physical evaluations are common. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, even "minor" procedures require health screenings to lower the risk of surgical complications.

2. Stop Smoking (and Vaping)

Tobacco use can seriously interfere with healing by reducing blood flow. Research shared by MedlinePlus.gov stresses that smoking raises your chances of poor wound healing, infections, and even tissue death after surgery. Quit at least four weeks before and four weeks after your procedure for best results.

3. Prep Your Recovery Zone

Set up your recovery space ahead of time so you're not scrambling after surgery. You’ll want:

• Compression garments

• Plenty of pillows

• Your medications ready

• Healthy snacks and meals

• Entertainment like books, shows, or podcasts

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends creating a "rest-and-recover area" to avoid unnecessary movement and promote faster healing.

4. Book Your Lymphatic Drainage Massages Early

Many surgeons now recommend starting manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) a few days after cosmetic surgery to control swelling and speed up healing. Booking your sessions ahead ensures you’re not stressed or scrambling post-surgery.

5. Adjust Your Medications and Supplements

Some medications and supplements can thin your blood, increasing the risk of bleeding. The National Institutes of Health highlights the importance of avoiding aspirin, NSAIDs (like Advil), and certain herbal products at least two weeks before surgery — but always check with your surgeon.

6. Focus on Your Nutrition and Hydration

Strong healing starts with strong nutrition. Eat a protein-rich, vitamin-packed diet leading up to surgery, and drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated improves circulation and immune response, which means fewer complications after surgery according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.

7. Arrange for a Helper

You’ll need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first 24–48 hours. Make sure your helper knows they’re your "recovery buddy" — it’s safer, and much more comfortable when you're not trying to do it alone.

Final Thoughts

Taking these simple but powerful steps before your cosmetic surgery will make a huge difference in how you heal, how you feel, and how fast you see results. Don’t leave it to chance — set yourself up for a smoother recovery and a more beautiful outcome.

Book your post-surgery massage care with Wrthit today — and remember, Because, You Are Wrthit.