Dr. Mitchell G. Cohen is a cosmetic surgeon in California, where the majority of his surgeries are elective procedures. In the following article, Mitchell Cohen M.D. discusses preparing for surgery, and how if done properly, it can aide in post-surgical healing and recovery.
Preparing to undergo a surgical operation can be an intimidating process. Taking the right steps to prepare for surgery can help in the recovery process and taking the proper precautions in post-operation recovery can help prevent any issues in the healing process according to Dr. Mitchell G. Cohen.
Prepare for elective surgery by speaking with a doctor about any health concerns or issues, following surgical orders for skin preparation including not shaving near the incision sites, quitting smoking, and making positive lifestyle changes.
Explaining more about how properly preparing for elective surgery can aid in the healing process, Mitchell Cohen M.D. discusses the proper way to assist yourself in healing post-surgery.
Have a Conversation with a Doctor
An elective surgery is a surgery that gets scheduled in advance for a condition that is not urgent or life-threatening. Even though it is not an emergency, elective surgery can still be used to treat a serious condition such as cancer according to Dr. Mitchell G. Cohen.
Before going into an elective surgery, have a conversation with a trusted health care professional about any health concerns. Developing a trusted relationship with a healthcare professional will make anyone feel at ease in the operating room. Clear communication is the basis of trust, so be sure to bring up any lingering questions or concerns before going into a surgery explains Mitchell Cohen.
Be sure to be transparent about any health issues or diseases, as well as any recreational drug or alcohol use, and regular medications. This will help the health care professionals accommodate any specific needs or demands. Ask any questions about the operation itself as soon as possible.
Due to Covid-19, there are new rules and regulations in place about procedure day, such as how many people will be allowed into the room for the operation. Completing a Covid-19 screening for any symptoms may be necessary, as well as completing a Covid-19 test. Dr. Mitchell G. Cohen says to ask any questions regarding these new regulations so there are no surprises on the operation day.
Follow Surgical Orders
The doctor’s office will go over any surgical orders of things to avoid in preparation for the surgery. This may include any pre-operation tests or recommendations for diet and exercise. In most cases, a patient may not be able to eat or drink anything after midnight in preparation for a surgery according to Mitchell Cohen.
Be sure to communicate with a trusted doctor or health care professional about any specific surgical orders regarding medications that are routinely taken in regard to preparing for a surgical operation. Disclose any health concerns or issues and follow doctor’s orders on cleaning skin before an operation. Dr. Mitchell G. Cohen explains that depending on the type of surgery being done, a patient may be asked to avoid shaving near the incision site as well.
Follow the New COVID-19 Protocol
Dr. Mitchell G. Cohen says that new Covid-19 rules and regulations will likely come into play, such as social distancing before the operation, wearing a face mask, and washing hands often to prevent the spread of COVID-19 before, during, and after an operation. Depending on the clinic or hospital, a patient may be asked to take a COVID-19 test before going into surgery, and should it be positive, there will be options to reschedule made available.
Quit Smoking
Mitchell Cohen explains that quitting cigarettes before an operation is a great idea to aid in the recovery process. The body will have more resources to heal itself if cigarettes and alcohol are out of the question. Changing an unhealthy diet and cutting out excess sugars and fats can have a greatly positive impact as well.
Getting regular exercise a few times, a week can also help to strengthen the body and its immune system and therefore make the recovery process a bit smoother. Start with something small, like going for a walk in the morning.
Eventually, strive to develop a personalized exercise routine that works well. Strive to move regularly, whether that be through cardio, resistance training, or yoga. Nobody wishes they did not make positive lifestyle changes before surgery. It will without a doubt help during the recovery process.
Follow Post-Operation Instructions
Following the post-operation instructions given by a doctor is also an important step in the healing process. This applies to the new COVID-19 instructions given by the CDC, which suggest staying home, avoiding crowds, and social distancing whenever possible.
Be sure to rest and relax a lot after an operation as it is one of the best things to do in the healing process. Do not add any extra stress to life during recovery time, and recovery time will be faster.
