If you smoke, you must stop. Women who smoke after breast surgery have a greater chance of slow wound (incision) healing, infection, and scarring. You must even avoid breathing in secondhand smoke.

Always tell your doctor or nurse:

• If you are or could be pregnant
• What drugs you are taking, even drugs, supplements, or herbs you bought without a prescription

During the days before surgery:

• You may need mammograms or breast x-rays before the surgery. Your plastic surgeon will do a routine breast exam.
• Several days before surgery, you may be asked to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, warfarin (Coumadin), and any other drugs that make it hard for your blood to clot.
• Ask your doctor which drugs you should still take on the day of the surgery.
• You may need to fill prescriptions for pain medicine before surgery.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and help you around your house for 1 or 2 days.

On the day of your surgery:

• You will usually be asked not to drink or eat anything after midnight the night before the surgery.
• Take the drugs your doctor told you to take with a small sip of water.
• Wear or bring loose clothing that buttons or zips in front.
• Your doctor or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital.