How Can I Prepare for my Plastic Surgery Procedure?

Preparing for plastic surgery means addressing health concerns before the procedure and arranging the support, space and time needed afterward. In this episode, Darren M. Smith, MD, a plastic surgeon in New York City, explains practical planning topics to discuss with the treating team.

He emphasizes that the recording provides general context: each patient and procedure requires its own instructions. Choosing an appropriately qualified surgeon with experience in the planned operation is the starting point, followed by a plan tailored to your circumstances.

Key takeaways

⚠️ Discuss smoking early.

Dr. Smith explains its relevance to tissue circulation, healing and anesthesia. A cessation plan should be part of preparation rather than left until the day of surgery.

🩹 Review existing health concerns.

The episode encourages addressing ongoing medical conditions before elective cosmetic surgery.

🔎 Consider nutrition and physical readiness.

Dr. Smith discusses adequate nutrition and conditioning as part of preparing for recovery, without providing an individualized diet or exercise program.

🎯 Plan the practical commitment.

Finances, time away from work and help during the early recovery period deserve attention before scheduling.

🩹 Prepare your recovery space.

Some procedures have specific positioning or pressure-related instructions. Ask how to arrange your home around the instructions for your operation.

💬 Questions answered

Does everyone need a nurse at home after plastic surgery?

No. Dr. Smith describes arranging nursing care for selected operations in his 2020 practice and support from a friend or loved one for other situations. The level of assistance depends on the procedure and the person's needs; confirm the current plan with your team.

When should I plan time off work?

Before the procedure, as part of scheduling and recovery planning. The episode encourages allowing for the necessary recovery period rather than assuming work can resume on the same timetable for every operation.

ℹ️ Current planning context

The ASPS smoking-risk guidance supports individualized planning that considers vaping and other nicotine exposure as well as cigarettes. The four-week smoking example and aftercare arrangements in this 2020 recording are historical, not personal clearance. Follow your team's current written preparation and recovery instructions.

🎧 Episode chapters

01:34 — Why instructions must be individualized

02:16 — Smoking and surgical preparation

03:07 — Health, nutrition and finances

04:23 — Preparing a recovery space

05:17 — Help at home and time off work

🔗 Related information

Explore the practice’s preparation guide, patient guides, Dr. Smith’s qualifications, or request a consultation with Dr. Smith in New York City.

About the host — current biography

Darren M. Smith, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Manhattan specializing in mommy makeover surgery, breast surgery, and body contouring. He was named to Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026 and has co-authored authoritative peer-reviewed publications on combined breast surgery and abdominoplasty and the surgical care of postpartum patients.

Originally released November 25, 2020. Show notes updated September 30, 2026. This is general education. Current recommendations, suitability, risks and expected results require an individual assessment.

Full transcript and related resources