Getting Ready for your Plastic Surgery Procedure

11/15/2020

Undergoing elective plastic surgery is an exciting time for many people. These procedures have the ability to improve self-esteem and overall emotional well-being and can have a profound impact on self-confidence.

Based in Houston, in the heart of the energy corridor, Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics sees clients from all parts of the state, throughout the country, and even internationally. As one of the most cutting-edge plastic surgery centers in the country, our practice spends a significant amount of time educating and informing clients on how to properly get ready for their procedures.

Each type of surgery is slightly different and preparation varies from one procedure to the next. There are, however, some basic points that are common to all procedures which we will cover below. The best way to learn which steps may be necessary to help you prepare for your procedure is through a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Ravi at our Houston office.

Please use the contact form on this page or call 281-242-1061 to schedule your visit today.

Your Initial Consultation

All plastic surgery procedures begin with an initial consultation. This visit provides you with the opportunity to discuss your areas of concern with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Ravi, and to ask any questions you might have about your options, our patient philosophy, and our practice.  It’s important to bring wish pictures to this appointment so that Dr. Ravi can take a look at your goals and make sure it is a realistic option for you.

During your initial consultation, we will review your medical history, assess your problem areas, and provide honest answers to your questions. We will also show you before and after photos of patients who have undergone similar procedures to help you get a better understanding of what your chosen procedure can do. If you decide to go ahead with a procedure, we can discuss financing and schedule your surgery at this time as well.

We understand that patients who do not live in the Houston area may have a difficult time making an in-person visit. We are pleased to offer virtual consultations to accommodate these needs. Please click here if a virtual consultation would be better for your needs.

Two Weeks Before Your Procedure

You will come to our office approximately two weeks prior to the date of your procedure. At this time, photos will be taken to document your baseline anatomy. You will get a folder that has instructions on your procedure as well as what to do and what not to do before and after surgery.  One of our staff will highlight and explain these things to ensure clarity.

This visit provides you an additional opportunity to meet with Dr. Ravi where he can answer any last-minute questions you may have. Surgery consents are filled out and prescriptions are given during this meeting as well.  Make sure all necessary medications are at home prior to your surgery day.

Surgical Preparation

In addition to making sure all prescriptions are filled, it is a good idea to create a comfortable space in your home where you can recover. Fill this space with books, magazines, and other forms of entertainment that will allow you to relax during your recovery period. Be sure to also arrange for help from a trusted adult who can assist with tasks that may be restricted during the first few weeks. Many patients will need to sleep only on their backs for several weeks and initially will need to have the head of their bed elevated. Some choose to arrange for a recliner or motorized bed for this reason.  

And please remember: It is important that you neither eat nor drink after midnight the day before surgery.

Your Procedure

On the day of surgery, you will be seen by various members of our surgical team including Dr. Ravi, the anesthesiologist (the doctor responsible for the anesthesia), and our nurse anesthetist. Our OR nurse and circulator will also introduce themselves.

The OR nurse will place an IV to administer pain medications as well as the medications required for anesthesia. Dr. Ravi will then make his surgical markings before you are taken back to the operating room.

All of our procedures are performed at Houston Plastic Surgery Center, our on-site, accredited surgical suite. This comfortable, technologically-advanced, private surgical center is reserved exclusively for the use of our patients.

Following Your Procedure

After surgery, you will spend time in the Post Anesthesia Unit (PACU) for 1-2 hours, depending on the type and extent of your procedure. Once you are comfortable and fully awake, you can be discharged from the facility and sent home.  

After undergoing general Anesthesia or IV sedation it is important that a responsible adult is available to take you home. This same or another adult should remain available for at least 48 hours to help with anything that may pop up.

If you have questions about your aftercare, it is imperative that they be directed to our doctors or staff. It is often tempting to “Google” a topic related to your procedure, but this is inadvisable. Likely half the information on Google is incorrect. It can be impossible to tell which half that is.

Included in your surgical costs is 24/7 access to our practice. We are always available to address your questions and concerns before and after your procedure. Undergoing plastic surgery is a journey. Our practice is here every step of the way.

Do You Have Questions?

As a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in Breast Enhancement and Body Contouring Surgery, Dr. Ravi and his experienced, knowledgeable, and highly trained staff are committed to ensuring that every client is prepared for their plastic surgery transformational journey.

If you have questions or would like to schedule an in-person consultation, please call 281-242-1061 today.

Known locally, nationally, and internationally, Dr. Ravi is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving The Woodlands, Katy, Sugar Land, and the world from our office in Houston.