Planning your clothes ahead of surgery day will reduce your stress and simplify the trip to the hospital. Having a practical selection of outfits for when you go home also helps you relax and rest as you begin your recovery. Talking to your medical team is always a must, but some general tips are always good to know for easier preparations.
What to Wear to the Hospital
If you wax or shave, do so a week before surgery to reduce your risk of bacteria. Your nurse can also do it for you at the start of the procedure, if necessary, once you are under anesthesia in the sterile surgical room. Washing your hair the night before is a good practice. You should generally shower the night before and the morning of your surgery, using a special antibacterial soap. Your medical provider or your pharmacist can recommend one to you.
Wearing loose-fitting and practical clothing to go to the hospital helps a lot. A minimal number of items makes it easier for you to put them back on after the procedure. A comfortable outfit also helps once you have bandages and stitches.
If you are on your menstrual cycle on surgery day, you can wear a pad or tampon.
What to Avoid
Make sure that there is nothing on your nails, whether nail polish or acrylic nails. The medical team needs to see your natural fingernails to monitor your circulation during the procedure. Similarly, don’t use any makeup or hair products for safety. Such products can be flammable and can contaminate open wounds.
You need to remove any body piercings and jewelry for your surgery. Any pressure on a piercing can result in tissue loss around them while you’re under anesthesia. They could also get in the way of the electrosurgical device your doctor use to cut tissue and control bleeding.
If you wear any mouth appliances such as a retainer or braces, remove them before the surgery too.
Focus on Comfort During Recovery
Comfort is the key choice while you heal from your surgery. Elastic waistbands and loose-fitting clothes are your friends during your recovery. In the first days or weeks following the procedure you may need to wear compression garments and bandages and wearing clothing with some room helps account for the extra layers.
Clothes that are easy to put on and remove such as zip-up or button-up shirts minimize necessary movements and twisting of the arms and upper body. Baggy sweatpants are also good options. Cloth headbands can help keep your hair out of your face.
Post-Op Special Garments
Certain procedures require or advise that you wear specific compression garments to support your body’s healing process. They can provide extra support to muscles and ligaments, protect the treated area, increase comfort, reduce swelling, and stimulate blood circulation.
Compression garments include:
- Chin supports and facial garments for surgeries like rhinoplasty and face lifts
- Abdominal lipo foam for liposuctions and tummy tucks
- Arm compression for brachioplasty and certain arm sculpting procedures
- Post-surgical bras for breast augmentations or reductions
Don’t hesitate to talk to your surgeon before the procedure for advice on what to wear. If you need post-op garments, the medical team can offer recommendations for when you leave the hospital. Your follow-up visits are also opportunities for any other questions you may have about the recovery process.
Call West Coast Plastic Surgery Center today at (805) 978-8545 or use our online form to schedule a consultation!