What happens before, during and after plastic surgery?

Get to know the process

Plastic surgery can contribute to increased confidence and quality of life, but it is important to be well informed about the process.

What happens before, during and after plastic surgery?

Here I give you an overview of what to expect, from consultation to recovery.

Legene ved Klinikk A - Dr Ståle Buhagen og Dr Frode Amland

Before surgery - Preparation and consultation

1. Consultation with the surgeon

Before surgery, you will have a thorough consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon. This meeting is
important to:

  • Discuss your wishes and expectations.
  • Get a medical assessment of what is possible and recommended.
  • Review any alternative treatments.
  • Inform about risk, expected outcome and aftermath.

Well-informed patients make good choices. Our goal is for you to have a good overview of what a
operation involves after the consultation.

2. Important preparations before surgery

For best results, it's important to prepare your body:

  • Avoid nicotine (smoking, snus, vaping) at least 2 weeks before surgery to ensure good wound healing.
  • Avoid blood thinners in consultation with your surgeon.
  • Eat healthily and drink enough water to keep your body in the best possible shape.
  • Pick up your e-prescription for painkillers, preventive antibiotics and disinfectant Hibiscrub soap in good time.

During surgery - What happens on the day of surgery?

1. Attendance and preparations

  • You must fast on the day of the operation when anesthesia is planned.
  • You show up at the clinic and register at the reception.
  • The surgeon marks the surgical area and reviews the final details.
  • You will receive anesthesia (local or general, depending on the procedure).

2. The operation itself

  • The duration depends on the type of procedure, but most plastic surgeries take
    between 30 minutes and 3 hours.
  • The operation is performed with a focus on aesthetics and safety.
  • After the operation, you will be monitored by our staff until you are ready to go home.

After surgery - Recovery and aftercare

1. The first days after surgery

  • You can generally expect swelling and bruising, which will subside during the first few weeks.
  • Painkillers can be taken by agreement with the surgeon.
  • Wear compression garments or bandage if recommended.
  • Rest is recommended for the first few days, but short walks help blood circulation.

2. Stitch removal and post inspection

  • We'll call you on the first business day to see how you're doing and arrange your next check-up.
  • Stitches are usually removed after 7-14 days (depending on the type of surgery).
    • In many surgeries, only self-dissolving stitches that do not need to be removed are used, for example in breast enlargement, breast reduction, arm plastic surgery and
      thighplasty.
  • The first check-up is often 1-2 weeks after surgery.
  • A final check-up is usually carried out after 3-6 months to assess the long-term results.

3. Long-term healing and results

  • The end result can often be assessed after 3-6 months, but small changes can occur in
    up to 2 years.
  • For best scar healing, taping the scars for 3 - 6 months is recommended.
  • Avoid sun on scars for at least 12 months. Use sunscreen with factor 50.
  • Gradual resumption of physical activity, usually after 3-6 weeks.

Common questions and concerns

Can I exercise after surgery?

Light activity, such as walking, is fine after a few days.

  • Avoid pulse-raising activity for the first 2-3 weeks.
  • Often the activity can be increased from about 3 weeks, depending on the type of surgery.
  • Exercise can usually be resumed from 6 weeks after surgery.

What do I do if I'm unhappy with the result?

It's important to have the right expectations. We discuss this during the consultation. The final result may take several months. If you are unsure, contact us for an assessment.

What happens if I have a complication?

Minor complications, such as slight swelling or minor wound reactions, are normal.

If you experience severe pain, bleeding or signs of infection, contact us
immediately.

Can I get a video consultation before surgery?

Yes, we offer video consultations for those who live far away. A physical consultation is always best, but we have good experience with video consultations, and this gives us a good basis for assessing which operations may be relevant.

Especially breast surgeries such as breast lifts, breast reductions and breast enlargement, eyelid surgery and liposuction can often be assessed via video.

If surgery is required, we will arrange a physical consultation at Klinikk A, either the day before or the same day as the surgery.

How long do I have to stay near the clinic after the surgery?

If you live more than 2 hours away from the clinic, we recommend that you stay nearby for the first 24 hours after surgery. The reason for this is that acute complications such as bleeding usually occur within 24 hours. By being nearby, we can help you quickly if something unexpected happens.

Do I have to stay overnight in Oslo, or can I travel home the same day?

If you live 2 hours from Oslo or closer, you can travel home the same day. If you live further away, we recommend that you spend the night in a hotel or with someone you know. Long journeys immediately after surgery can increase the risk of discomfort, and should acute complications arise, we can help you quickly.

How do the follow-up checks work if I live far away?

Follow-up is adapted individually. In some cases, you can be followed up by your own doctor, while other times a telephone or video consultation may be sufficient. If necessary, you can always come to Klinikk A for a physical check-up.

Very satisfied with klinikk A in every way! Professional, attentive and proper follow-up with good information! You feel cared for and in the very best hands! Definitely recommended!
Beate Langhelle

Klinikk A is 100% is a serious clinic. I felt very safe and well taken care of before, during and after the operation I had performed with them.
Kristin Blichfeldt

Is plastic surgery right for you?

Plastic surgery is a personal decision that requires good information and realistic
expectations. At Klinikk A, we are committed to safety, quality and individually tailored
Treatments.

Want to know more? Book a consultation with Klinikk A for a personalized assessment.

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