One of the most overlooked aspects of planning for the long-awaited day of your cosmetic surgery procedure is what you should pack to take with you. Although most patients will not have to stay overnight at the surgical facility, it is a good idea to pack a bag or purse with some necessary items for practicality and comfort. A toothbrush and toothpaste, a second outfit, medication, and a form of entertainment such as a book or magazine will suffice. Additionally, you will want to be sure to bring any necessary paperwork, your preferred form of payment, medical insurance card, and a photo identification. 

What should you wear on surgery day? The list of what not to wear is longer than what you should wear. On the day of your surgery, David W. Allison, MD suggests that our patients wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing such as sweatpants and a shirt or pajamas. We recommend button-up or zip-up shirts so that you do not have to strain to pull a t-shirt up and over your head which could increase the likelihood of snagging bandages or stitches. Operating rooms tend to be cold so you may consider warm socks along with slide-on shoes or slippers for ease and comfort once you are able to walk around after surgery. 

Equally as important as what to wear on surgery day is what not to wear on surgery day. If you wear contact lenses, you will need to take them out and opt for glasses instead, at least before surgery. If your cosmetic surgery is a facial procedure such as a facelift or rhinoplasty, you will be able to resume wearing contact lenses after surgery as because placing glasses on the face or bridge of the nose may interfere with healing. During heavy sedation, dry eye and corneal abrasion can occur so it is best to avoid wearing contact lenses. You will also need to arrive makeup free including no nail polish on the fingernails or toenails. Small particles of makeup can cause infection or irritability to the eyes or open skin. Makeup, nail polish, and even hair products can be flammable and should be avoided the day of surgery. Nail polish on the fingernails can also interfere with the pulse oximeter located on the finger that is used to determine the amount of oxygen in your blood. In most cases, deodorant is also discouraged. All jewelry including rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and other piercings should be left at home. The easiest way to prepare for what you should wear on surgery day is to keep it simple and basically plan to keep your skin and wardrobe in line with your bedtime routine-cleansed skin, brushed teeth, loose-fitting, cozy clothes, makeup and hair product free, and jewelry removed.
For a surgery day checklist, visit WEBSITE. For all questions regarding what to expect on surgery day, call our David W. Allison, MD friendly front office at 703-754-8228. We are here to support you in all aspects of your cosmetic surgery procedure from consultation to recovery.