Preparing for surgery isn’t just about showing up on the day of the procedure — it’s about building your best body for healing in the months before.
Whether you’re undergoing plastic surgery or any surgical specialty, following a structured preparation plan can dramatically improve your recovery, lower risks, and enhance your final results.
⚠️ Important Notice for All Patients
Your surgery will be POSTPONED if nicotine, marijuana, or any controlled substances are found on your urine test the day of surgery — no exceptions.
SECOND-HAND EXPOSURE to nicotine or marijuana CAN cause a positive test result.
You are responsible for avoiding environments where passive smoke or vapor exposure could happen.
This is a safety measure to protect your healing and surgical outcomes.
Here’s everything you need to know to prepare like an elite patient:
Primary Care Checkup: If you haven’t had an annual physical recently, schedule one to detect hidden risks early.
Quit Smoking: Stop smoking at least 8 weeks before surgery to improve blood flow and healing.
Reduce Alcohol Intake: Alcohol can interfere with anesthesia and immune function.
Nutrition Upgrade: Focus on a high-protein, vitamin-rich diet (especially vitamins A, C, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids).
Mental Health Focus: Begin mindfulness practices like meditation or breathing exercises to reduce stress before surgery.
Start Supplements: Consider Vitamin C, D, Omega-3s, Zinc, and Arginine — but only after discussing with your surgeon.
No Nicotine, No Alcohol: Full cessation is mandatory to minimize surgical risks.
Moderate Exercise: Maintain daily physical activity according to your fitness level.
Medication Review: Discuss which medications or supplements need to be stopped before surgery (like blood thinners, ACE inhibitors, or herbal supplements).
Urine Toxicology Testing:
Test for nicotine, marijuana (THC), and controlled substances.
Perform a pregnancy test if applicable.
Specialist Clearances: Ensure any abnormal findings are addressed by cardiologists, pulmonologists, endocrinologists, or hematologists if necessary.
Travel to Miami (if traveling): Arrive at least 48 hours before your procedure.
Hygiene Preparation: Bathe with antibacterial soap; avoid shaving the surgical area.
Hydrate and Sleep: Drink plenty of water and aim for 8+ hours of sleep.
Repeat Urine Testing:
Nicotine, Marijuana, Controlled Substances, Pregnancy.
Follow Fasting Instructions:
No food or drink 12 hours before surgery (unless your surgeon gives other instructions).
Pack Smart: Bring your ID, loose-fitting front-button clothes, medications, and paperwork.
Third Urine Test:
Yes, you’ll be tested again for nicotine, marijuana, and controlled substances.
Continue Essential Medications:
Such as beta-blockers, asthma inhalers, thyroid medications.
Avoid Disallowed Medications:
Such as ACE inhibitors, diuretics, diabetes pills, blood thinners.
Arrival:
No makeup, no jewelry, loose clothing.
You must bring a responsible adult to assist you after surgery.
smokefree.gov — Quit Smoking Support
eatright.org — Nutrition Advice
choosemyplate.gov — Balanced Diet Guidelines
capriniriskscore.org — Surgical Risk Assessment Tools
The Ultimate Guide to Safe and Satisfying Plastic Surgery” is your essential roadmap to making informed, confident decisions—demystifying procedures, prioritizing safety, and ensuring results that align with your goals.
Discover the ultimate roadmap to a safe, successful transformation in “Behind the Mirror”, crafted by acclaimed plastic surgeon Dr. Julio Clavijo Álvarez. Whether you’re contemplating plastic surgery for the first time or seeking clarity on the process, this book stands as an essential resource to educate, prepare, and empower.
With clarity and compassion, Dr. Clavijo Álvarez breaks down every aspect of the plastic surgery journey. Starting from pre-surgery preparation to the critical aspects of postoperative care, “Behind the Mirror” addresses common misconceptions and answers your most pressing questions. This book challenges the myth of cosmetic surgery as a “magic fix” and instead emphasizes a holistic approach, where physical transformation aligns with personal growth.
Highlights of “Behind the Mirror”:
Everything you need to feel healthy and beautiful
Book your consultation with Dr. JC Alvarez today and take the first step toward safe, natural, and satisfying results. Your best version starts here!
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