Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Fasting: No food or drink (including water, mints, or gum) for 8 hours prior to surgery.

Transportation: A responsible adult must drive you home and remain with you overnight. Rideshare services are not permitted.

Medications: Discontinue aspirin, NSAIDs, and blood-thinning supplements as directed (typically 2–3 weeks prior).

Lifestyle Adjustments: Cease smoking and limit alcohol intake in the weeks leading up to surgery. These steps reduce complications and support healing.

Day of Surgery:

• Shower the night before or morning of surgery.
• Do not apply lotions, deodorant, or makeup.
• Wear loose, front-opening clothing.

Suggested Supplies:

• Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• No-slip socks
• Compression garments
• Skinuva or similar scar gel (begin 6 weeks post-op)

Key Post-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Pain Management: Use Tylenol (acetaminophen) as directed. Narcotic pain medication and anti-nausea medication may be prescribed.

Antibiotics: Complete the full course, even if symptoms improve.

Mobility: Begin gentle walking the day after surgery to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Positioning: Rest with your upper body elevated and knees slightly bent to reduce tension on the incision.

Lifting & Activity: Avoid lifting over 5 lbs or engaging in strenuous activity until cleared by your surgeon.

Showering: You may resume showering the day after surgery unless otherwise instructed. Do not submerge the incision in water until fully healed.

Incision Care:

• Keep dressings clean and dry.
• Clean the belly button daily with a Q-tip and hydrogen peroxide, then apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment.
• Support Garments: A compression garment is required for 4–6 weeks post-surgery to manage swelling and support healing.
• Sensory Changes: Temporary numbness, tingling, or itching is common and typically resolves over time.