Preoperative preparation for plastic surgery is individualized. Patients should not stop medications, change fasting times or begin supplements from a generic checklist. The safest plan is based on medical history, procedure, anesthesia and instructions from the surgical and anesthesia teams.
What should be reviewed before surgery?
| Area | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Medical history | Identifies cardiovascular, respiratory, metabolic, bleeding and healing risks |
| Medications and supplements | May affect bleeding, blood pressure, glucose, anesthesia or recovery |
| Nicotine and substance use | Can impair perfusion, healing and respiratory safety |
| Previous facial procedures | Fillers, threads, devices and permanent products may alter tissue planes |
| Nutrition and weight | Anemia, inadequate protein intake or rapid weight change can affect recovery |
Medications, supplements and GLP-1 drugs
Provide a complete list of prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, hormones, vitamins, herbal products and recreational substances. Aspirin, anticoagulants, blood-pressure medication and diabetes treatment must not be stopped independently. GLP-1 medications require specific guidance because recommendations depend on the drug, dose, symptoms, anesthesia and current clinical protocol.
Previous fillers, biostimulators, threads, PMMA, liquid silicone and energy treatments should also be disclosed. Dermatologic ultrasound may be requested when prior material or fibrosis could affect facial surgery.
Nicotine, nutrition and weight stability
Nicotine exposure—including cigarettes, vaping and nicotine pouches—can reduce tissue perfusion and increase wound complications. The required cessation period is defined by the surgeon; elective surgery may be postponed if exposure continues. Read more about nicotine and surgical healing.
A balanced diet with adequate protein and correction of documented deficiencies is more useful than “detox” plans or unprescribed supplements. Patients using GLP-1 drugs or undergoing rapid weight loss should reach a stable, nutritionally appropriate phase before elective facial rejuvenation whenever possible.
Fasting is not automatically “after midnight”
Fasting instructions depend on the anesthesia plan, hospital policy and timing of surgery. Follow the exact written instructions provided for solids, clear liquids and morning medications. Eating or drinking outside those instructions can delay or cancel surgery because of aspiration risk.
Prepare for recovery
- Arrange a responsible adult and local support.
- Obtain prescribed medication before surgery without taking it early unless instructed.
- Prepare comfortable clothing and the recommended sleeping position.
- Remove obstacles that increase fall risk.
- Know how to contact the medical team and recognize urgent warning signs.
International-patient planning
Remote consultation begins the process, but definitive indication follows an in-person examination. Major surgery is performed at Hospital São José with anesthesiology and postoperative monitoring. International patients generally arrive in Criciúma one or two days beforehand and, after major facial procedures, commonly remain at least 15 days in Brazil, adjusted to recovery.
Belvivere’s concierge team assists with accommodation and transport. It does not replace medical follow-up or determine flight clearance.
Key point
Good preparation reduces avoidable risk but does not guarantee an uncomplicated recovery. Accurate disclosure and procedure-specific instructions are safer than universal internet rules.
