Your Pre-Operation Care Regimen

What to Expect and How to Prepare for Surgery at Galanis Plastic Surgery.

At Galanis Plastic Surgery, we believe that great results start long before the operating room. Preparation, communication, and attention to detail are the hallmarks of the surgical process here. Led by Dr. Charles Galanis, our team is committed to making your experience smooth, informed, and safe, so you can take back your confidence with peace of mind. We guide every patient through a thorough pre-operative care process designed to minimize risks and set the foundation for the best possible outcome. Below, you’ll find detailed information on what to expect and how to prepare for your procedure.

How to Prepare: Surgical Clearance

You will need to schedule a pre-operative clearance appointment with your primary care physician, internist, or selected urgent care facility 4 weeks (30 days) prior to your surgical date. A medical clearance request form will be sent to you with the required testing. If you choose to visit your own provider, please notify our office. We will provide a form outlining exactly what is needed.

Your provider will send the results directly to us for your doctor to review and approve. Required testing may include:

Blood work
Written medical clearance from an MD or DO
EKG and stress test (patients 50+ years)
Chest X-ray (patients 55+ years)
Medical history and physical examination
Mammogram within 6 months (required for breast procedures in patients 40+)

If you have a history of heart disease, a stress test is required, regardless of age.

Your Pre-Surgery Timeline

3–4 Weeks Before Surgery

Complete all required testing and submit results to our office at least two weeks before surgery.
Women over 40 undergoing breast surgery must have had a mammogram within the past year.
If you’re under 40 but have a strong family history or prior cancer, a mammogram may still be required.

2 Weeks Before Surgery

Discontinue any medications containing aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, or other NSAIDs.
Stop all herbal supplements unless specifically cleared by the doctor.
Absolutely no smoking or nicotine products. This is especially critical for breast lift and reduction patients.
Confirm that all test results have been submitted to our office.

1 Week Before Surgery

Avoid alcohol consumption.

Day Before Surgery

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight. This is crucial for your safety under anesthesia. Failure to follow this can result in the cancellation of your procedure.
You may take medications with a small sip of water, if advised by your care team.

Day of Surgery

Shower and shampoo the morning of surgery.
Do not wear deodorant, makeup, hair products, or nail polish. Acrylic nails may stay on.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
Remove all jewelry.
If menstruating, wear a feminine napkin. Do not wear a tampon.

Medications and Supplements to Stop Taking

Please cease taking the following two weeks before and after surgery, due to the risk of adverse reactions during anesthesia or healing:

Seldane
Hismonyl
Erythromycin
St. John's Wort
Redux / Meridia
Ma huang / Chinese Ephedra / Epitonin
Fen-Phen / The Formula
Echinacea
Ginkgo
Any other herbs or herbal drinks
Steroids
Cold remedies or other over-the-counter medications
Homeopathic remedies
Recreational drugs (cocaine, marijuana, heroin, etc.)
Fish oil
Melatonin
Cayenne pepper

Please also provide a complete list of all prescription medications and dosages, if you haven't already submitted this with your medical history form.

Pre-Operative Medications

Your medication plan will vary based on your procedure, but in general:

One Week Prior to Surgery:

Iron (Ferrous sulfate 325 mg): Take twice daily
Arnica Forte (Over-the-counter): Follow kit instructions to reduce bruising

Starting the Day Before Surgery:

Gabapentin (Neurontin) 300 mg: Take twice daily for 7 days to support nerve healing

Day of Surgery:

If prescribed Lovenox (a blood thinner), bring 1 syringe to surgery for Dr. Galanis to administer. Continue daily injections as directed post-op.

Galanis Plastic Surgery Is Here for You

At Galanis Plastic Surgery, we go beyond surgical excellence: we deliver personalized, concierge-level care designed to support you at every stage of your transformation. From your first consultation to your final follow-up, we’re here to make sure you feel confident, informed, and supported.

If you have any questions about how to prepare for your upcoming surgery, or if you're just beginning to explore your options, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to find out just how close your best self could be. Call (310) 858-8930 or fill out our contact form to get started.