Key Pre-Operative Guidelines (Summary)

Anesthesia Options:

• General Anesthesia: No food or drink (including water, mints, or gum) for 8 hours prior. A responsible adult must drive you home and stay with you for at least 1–2 days.
• Local Anesthesia Only: No fasting required. You may drive yourself home.
• Local Anesthesia with Sedation: No food or drink for 3 hours prior. You must arrange a ride home.

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

Lifestyle Adjustments: Cease smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery and limit alcohol for at least 2 weeks prior.

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)
• Underwire bra or breast strap (if provided)
• Scar gel (optional, such as Skinuva)

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 of surgery to promote circulation.

Driving: Do not drive while taking narcotic pain medication. Most patients can resume driving safely after 1–2 weeks once they are off narcotics, have good arm mobility, and feel safe controlling the car. Avoid long drives or manual-shift driving for about 3 weeks.

Arm Movement: Avoid strenuous upper body movements. Do not lift over 5 lbs.

Support Garments: Wear the provided underwire bra or breast strap continuously as directed by your surgeon.

Sleep Position: Sleep on your back with your head elevated (2–3 pillows) for at least one week.

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

Exercise: Avoid activities that engage the pectoral muscles for at least 2 months.