 Pre-operative care includes a history and physical examination. This is followed by a full discussion of the various options, the procedure, possible complications and post operative care.
Many drugs have an influence on the clotting ability of the blood, especially aspirin and anti-inflammatory agents. It is imperative that these drugs are discontinued 2 weeks before surgery. Alcohol has a similar effect and should only be taken in moderation. The oral contraceptive pill has the opposite effect, thickening the blood and should be discontinued one month prior to surgery. This is to prevent the possible complication of deep vein thrombosis.
Smoking, similarly, thickens the blood. More importantly, smoking delays wound healing by causing vasoconstriction of small vessels leading to diminish blood flow and displacing oxygen from haemoglobin and replacing it with carbon monoxide. Well oxygenated tissue is very important for good wound healing. I recommend
no smoking for at least one month prior to surgery.
A healthy diet is also advisable as Vitamin C, Zinc and Iron are all necessary for the healing process. I often recommend starting a multivitamin preparation one week prior to surgery, or earlier if so desired.
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