Arrange for transportation home after surgery (you will not be able to drive).
Ensure a responsible adult stays with you for at least 24 hours post-surgery.
Plan time off work for at least 2 weeks.
Prepare a comfortable recovery area at home with extra pillows to keep your head elevated.
2. Medications to Avoid:
Blood thinners: Aspirin, Clopidogrel, Warfarin (Mr Navaratnam and his team will advise you specifically in regards to this after consulting with your other medical teams).
Non-steroid anti-inflammatories: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), and other NSAIDs (at least 1 week before surgery).
Herbal supplements: Especially those that may increase bleeding, such as ginseng, garlic, ginger, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s Wort, and vitamin E. (at least 1 week before surgery).
Arnica: Avoid arnica (at least 1 week prior to surgery).
Certain prescription medications: Consult with Mr Navaratnam about any medications that might interfere with healing.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments:
Stop smoking: If you are a smoker, you should have stopped smoking at least 2 weeks prior to your operation.
Avoid secondhand smoke: Nicotine restricts blood flow, increasing the risk of complications and delaying healing.
Limit alcohol: Avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery as it can interfere with anesthesia and healing.
Diet & nutrition: Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet to support recovery. Aim for a low salt diet.
4. Skincare & Make-up:
No make-up, lotions, or creams on your face on the day of surgery.
Avoid heavy sun exposure for at least 2 weeks before surgery to reduce skin sensitivity.
Cleanse your face thoroughly the night before with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser. You can use Octenisan antiseptic wash.
5. Avoid Certain Environments & Activities:
Crowded places: Reduce the risk of catching a cold or infection before surgery.
Dusty or polluted environments: These can irritate your nasal passages and affect healing.
Intense workouts: Avoid strenuous activities 48 hours before surgery to minimise swelling and blood pressure spikes.
Night before surgery
6. General preparations:
No eating or drinking after midnight (or as instructed by Mr Navaratnam and the team).
Shower and wash your hair as you won’t be able to for the first day after surgery.
Remove all piercings, jewellery, nail polish, and contact lenses before arriving at the hospital/clinic.
If you have a thick beard, it would be preferable to shave or trim this unless for religious reasons.
Morning of surgery
7. General Preparations:
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not need to be pulled over your head.
Bring a book or tablet/laptop. There may be a wait before surgery.