Otoplasty Preoperative Instructions FAQ
1) What do I do to prepare for surgery?
Although the preparation for surgery is pretty simple, it is an essential element in a successful outcome. To prepare for surgery, a preoperative appointment will be scheduled with one of our experienced nurses.
2) What happens at the preoperative appointment?
Many things! To name a few, you will meet with our nurse to review your health history, answer your questions, instruct you on how to prepare for surgery, receive the prescriptions for use after surgery and tell you what to expect. Most of the instructions are listed here. This list of questions, however, will not take the place of a preoperative visit, which is essential in determining a patient’s understanding and readiness for surgery. We will be sure you are signing for informed consent.
3) What does informed consent mean?
Informed consent means you have an excellent understanding about the benefits of surgery as well as any risks, and all the preoperative and postoperative information. You are making an “informed” decision as to whether surgery is right for you.
4) What are the benefits and risks of the procedure?
As part of your initial consultation, your physician will review your expectations for surgery. At that time, he can provide a realistic picture of what surgery can and cannot accomplish. Depending on which procedures you are interested in, we will provide you with a list of risks reported in the medical literature associated with any procedures you are considering. Although risks from cosmetic surgery are uncommon, every patient should be fully informed of any risks associated with surgery.
5) Will I have any incisions in my skin?
Yes. See the illustrations for placement of incisions. These incisions heal very well and most patients and family members will not notice them after a few weeks.
6) What if I have a history of bad scars?
If you have pierced ears, the way you healed there is a good indication of how you will heal from facial plastic surgery. Scars on the rest of the body typically are not an indication for how patients heal following facial plastic surgery. At the time of your consultation, it’s important to show your physician any previous scars (sometimes called keloid scars) that are of concern so he can give you a realistic assessment of your healing potential following facial plastic surgery.
7) What are some of the other things to do to prepare for surgery?
We review your health history and any daily medications you may be taking. Because tobacco abuse impedes wound healing, you will be asked to stop for two weeks before surgery and two weeks following surgery. Our nurses will be happy to discuss over-the-counter aids to help you with this.
8) What about my daily medications before surgery?
You will have a preoperative appointment well in advance of your surgery when our experienced staff will review all mediations with you. If you are on “blood thinners,” you will be asked to stop them approximately one week prior to surgery. See also our Medication List” for instructions on medications and supplements to avoid prior to surgery.
9)I take vitamins and supplements. Do I need to stop them before surgery?
Most vitamins and supplements have few side effects. However, there are some that can such as vitamin E affect bleeding during surgery. Our “Medication List” reviews medications and supplements to avoid one week before surgery.
10) Do I need any special prescriptions before surgery?
Most patients do not need any special prescriptions before surgery. Please let us know of any special medical concerns you may have. We do ask you to start Vitamin C (which promotes wound healing) three times a day with food one week before surgery. The prescriptions needed after surgery are discussed below. You will be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery.
11) Why will I be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight before the procedure?
Anesthesia medications can cause stomach upset. The best way to prevent after effects from anesthesia will be to avoid food or drink from midnight the night before surgery. For patients with special concerns, such as a patient with diabetes, our anesthesia team will be happy to address special arrangements with you ahead of time.
12) Where do I check in on surgery day?
The check-in process is pretty easy and so confidential. Because all consultations, office visits, surgical and nonsurgical experiences take place at the same address, you’ll already be familiar with where to come on surgery day. Privacy is the hallmark of Lindsay House.
13) What happens when I check in for surgery?
Our nurses will help you get ready for surgery. Please let them know of any special needs you may have. Also, be assured that you have plenty of time for any last minute questions with your surgeon.
14) What other instructions are there?
Glad you asked! See the postoperative instructions below.
