Surgical care: before and after

Abdominoplasty and suction:

These cosmetic surgeries involve the removal of fat tissue through incision that will bring you closer to your ideal physical conditions. It is important to remember that as with any surgery, it can carry potential complications and risks. Carefully evaluate your decision and seek necessary consultations before proceeding. We aim to provide guidance to navigate you through the process and reduce your anxiety.

Care that you need to do before the operation to achieve the desired result:

Smoking is prohibited before surgery (avoid smoking for at least 15 days before surgery because it disrupts blood supply and increases the risk of infection.)

Discuss the medications you are taking with your doctor and stop taking anticoagulant medications (aspirin, etc.) and sedative medications a few days before the operation.

To ensure desired results and minimize potential risks, certain pre-operative care is necessary. Here are the recommended steps:
Smoking cessation: It is crucial to avoid smoking for at least 15 days before the surgery. Smoking can disrupt blood supply and increase the risk of infection.
Medication discussion: Prior to the operation, discuss all the medications you are currently taking with your doctor. Specifically, inform them about any anticoagulant medications (such as aspirin) or sedatives that you may be using. Depending on your specific case, your doctor may advise you to stop taking these medications a few days prior to the surgery to minimize bleeding risks and ensure a safe procedure.
Perform the tests requested by the doctor and bring them with you on the day of the operation. (You may need a blood transfusion before the operation.)
If the doctor asks you for a special consultation (heart, glands, etc.), don’t fail to do it.
Shave the surgical site.
Eat a light dinner the night before and fast for 6-8 hours before your surgery.
Take a shower the night before.
Don’t worry, everything will go well.
Be sure to bring a companion with you on the first day of surgery to be alongside you through the process.
Bring all required documents (tests/counseling and abdominal brace, etc.) that the doctor requested you to bring.
Depending on the conditions, your surgery will take approximately 2-5 hours (not including recovery time).
In the first hours after the surgery, you will probably have a lot of pain, but it will gradually improve.
You may also need a blood transfusion based on your state after the surgery.
Refrain from eating anything until the doctor has permitted you to do so.
After your recovery and once you are feeling better, you should get out of bed and perform some light activity.

Necessary care tips to follow at home during your recovery period:

Your first week of recovery is usually the most unpleasant. You may experience pain, swelling, and bruising.
An ice pack can help reduce your swelling and pain.
Change your dressing daily and keep the area clean.
Consult your doctor about bathing time and method after surgery.
Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding movement and posture during the recovery period. If advised, walk bent for a certain period of time. Additionally, folding your legs while sleeping may provide comfort and support.
Take precautions to support the surgical area when sneezing or coughing. This can be done by gently holding a pillow against the incision site to minimize strain.
If you have a drain in place, pay attention to the amount of secretions. Your doctor will provide guidance on how to manage and monitor the drain effectively.
Before engaging in any sports or physical activities, consult your doctor for clearance. They will advise you on the appropriate time to resume exercise or sports based on your recovery progress.
Having a good diet is very important, make sure to include protein and vitamins in your diet.
Stay hydrated and drink enough fluids.
Incorporate more liver and spinach in your diet.
In the first two weeks, choose non-spicy and easily digestible steamed foods.
Limit your consumption of salt and carbonated drinks and sugar.
Check if you have symptoms of infection, shortness of breath and severe lethargy.
Visit your doctor at the appointed time.
Take prescribed medicines on time.

Cesarean section

A Cesarean section the procedure in which an incision is made in the abdomen to safely deliver the baby when natural birth is not possible or recommended for any reason.

Preparing for a C-Section

In order to have a cesarean, you should fast for 6 hours prior to the procedure.
Based to your test results, if your doctor predicts the risk of clots, he may recommend special socks for you.
Shower and shave the night before.
Remember to bring everything you need for yourself and the baby.
Arrive at the hospital on the appointed day with a companion.
Consume laxative foods a few days prior to the surgery to prevent constipation.
On the day of surgery, listen to your doctor’s advice so that the delivery process goes as smoothly as possible.

After care

For the first hour, sleep in an arched position and refrain from eating or getting up without your doctor’s order.
After 8 hours start walking and wiggling your toes while resting.
Avoid abdominal exercises in the first 6 weeks after delivery.
Do not lift heavy objects until 3 months after C-section.
On the day after the surgery, take a shower and remove your dressing.
Schedule a follow-up appointment with your doctor within a week to 10 days.
Maintain proper hygiene of the incision area and if case you have any signs of infection, such as redness, itching, and foul smell of the area, see a doctor.
Receive comprehensive breastfeeding training from the medical staff and avoid using formula on your own.
Schedule newborn screening 3-5 days after birth.
If the baby appears lethargic and develops a yellowish hue, and has difficulty feeding, consult a pediatrician.
Avoid consuming flatulent foods during the first week.
Drink enough fluids to stay hydrated and consume laxative foods such as apricots and figs.
Don’t forget to consume enough protein (meat/milk/eggs, etc.) and iron-rich foods (liver/parsley/watercress/lentils, etc.).
Avoid overeating and opt for food in smaller and more frequent meals.
If you are breastfeeding and have not resumed you menstrual period, there is a possibility of your pregnancy and you should consider contraceptive methods.
Avoid sexual intercourse for the first 6-8 weeks after cesarean section.
Take iron pills as prescribed by your doctor for three months after your surgery.
It is common to experience a little headache and heartburn during the recovery period.
Be sure to seek medical attention if you experience an increase in blood pressure, leg swelling or severe lethargy.
Wash and clean your breasts before each breastfeeding session.
Don’t forget to use warm compress and breast massage.
If you have breast congestion/pain/redness and swelling, consider seeking additional breastfeeding training.

Gastric sleeve surgery

Gastric sleeve surgery is performed with the aim of treating obesity and improving other diseases that can be caused by obesity. In addition, in this operation, approximately 75-80% of the stomach is removed and the surgery is irreversible. Therefore, you need to know what path you have ahead of you.

Pre-surgery care is as vital as post-surgery care, and you must listen to your doctor’s advice to reach your desired result.

Preparing for the surgery

Understand that all surgeries carry risks and complications.
Changing your lifestyle is the key to success in losing weight after sleeve recovery.
Start making necessary changes a few months prior to the surgery to prepare for post-surgery care.
Adhering to a proper diet is key to success, we recommend you seek guidance from a nutritionist and adopt a healthy diet.
Commitment and adherence are crucial to success.
Share all illnesses and health problems with your doctor prior to the surgery.
In case you are taking any kind of medication, including vitamins or even herbal medicine, inform your doctor and act according to their orders.
You should stop taking any anti-coagulant drugs, such as aspirin, warfarin, sedatives and hypnotics, some time prior to the surgery based on your doctor’s advice.
Before your surgery, it is important to undergo various tests and consultations as by your doctor. These may include:
Complete blood test
Biochemistry tests
Urine test
Abdominal ultrasound (if necessary)
Additional tests such as chest radiology, CT scan depending on specific conditions
Cardiovascular consultation
Psychiatric counseling to address the lifestyle changes and commitment involved
Lung function test
Other consultations based on any underlying disease (e.g., endocrine glands)
Sleep assessment if needed
Have a light meal the night before the surgery. Fast for 6-8 hours prior to the surgery. Take a shower
Don’t worry, everything will go well.
On the first day of the surgery, be accompanied with someone and plan enough time to get everything done.
If you forget something that may affect the surgical process, inform the treatment staff.
The duration of the surgery can range from 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the circumstances.
After the surgery, you may experience pain and nausea.
You may have a nasogastric tube according to the doctor’s order that will help reduce stomach pressure.
Avoid eating until instructed by the doctor.
It’s important to get out of bed and be active once you are fully awake.

After care

Your first week of recovery is usually the most unpleasant. These notes will help ease your recovery process:

Avoid lifting heavy objects.
If you feel an unbearable pain in your body, inform your doctor immediately.
Avoid high-intensity activity, including heavy aerobic exercise.

Lifestyle tips

After the surgery, following a specialized diet plan is crucial for success as the stomach shrinks. A specialist surgeon will provide a personalized diet plan based on your body. Carefully adhere to nutritional guidelines for the first 6 weeks, then the diet becomes easier, allowing around 1200 calories per day.
Starting from the second week, add protein into your diet, ensuring it’s free from sugar and fat. In the third and fourth week, you can consume pureed and solid foods.
Chew food slowly and avoid fatty, flatulent, and sugary foods.
Engage in low-impact physical activity and consult your doctor for guidance in the initial months.
We recommend light walking as the best exercise option.
Avoid abdominal exercises for the first two months.
Rest whenever you feel tired.
Changing your lifestyle is challenging after weight loss surgery, which is why it’s beneficial to make changes beforehand.
Your commitment to this path is crucial, as it is irreversible.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Follow the prescribed diet and exercise regimen advised by your doctor.

Consult with your healthcare team for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs.

Mammoplasty or breast reduction surgery

This surgery aims to remove a portion pf the breast to reduce its volume. Through incisions made on the breast, excess fat and tissue are eliminated. Before you undergo the surgery consukt with a doctor to determine whether you are a good candidate.

This guide will help you through the process.

Preparing for a surgery

Perform the necessary tests as
Your doctor may also ask you to get a mammogram and breast ultrasound
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
Inform your doctor if you have any symptoms of a flu
In case you are taking any kind of medication, inform your doctor and act according to their orders
Take a shower the night before and eat a light dinner
Fast for 6-8 hours before the surgery based on your doctor’s order
Bring all the required documents (tests/consultation, etc.) with you
Be at the hospital with a companion at a proper time to prepare for everything
Depending on the circumstances, your surgery will last between 2-4 hours without including recovery time
In your first hours of recovery, you may have a lot of pain, but gradually you condition will improve
Your doctor will determine when you can eat and get out of the bed

After care

Follow the doctor’s orders and rest at home for at least a week, but engage in light walks and avoid complete rest.
Refrain from engaging in any sports activities for approximately a month.
It is normal to experience numbness and occasional chest pain after the surgery, but these symptoms will gradually improve.
Swelling and bruising may persist for up to 6 weeks but will gradually diminish.
Some discharge from the surgical site is normal.
Avoid lifting heavy objects until you have fully recovered.
The surgical scar will fade over time but will not completely disappear. Do not apply any ointments without consulting your doctor.
Refrain from sexual activity until you have partially recovered as it can increase breast swelling.
Ask your doctor about bathing and changing dressings.
Avoid submerging in pools and stagnant water until the incision site has fully healed to minimize the risk of infection.
Do not raise your hands above your chest until you have fully recovered.
You can use cold compresses for the first three days and then switch to warm compresses. Ensure that your chest is numb to prevent damage to breast tissue.
Taking vitamin C can help reduce swelling and bruising after mammoplasty surgery.
Avoid sleeping on your stomach or putting pressure on your chest.
Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and protein in your diet.
Limit the consumption of spices and salt, as they can increase swelling and bruising.
If your doctor has recommended a specific medical bra, be sure to wear it as instructed.
Avoid self-medication.
Reduce or eliminate alcohol and smoking, as they can delay wound healing and increase the risk of infection.
Keep your scheduled appointments with the doctor.
Take prescribed medications regularly.