What You Should Avoid Doing Before Getting a Plastic Surgery Procedure

You’ve finally made the decision to enhance your appearance through plastic surgery — congrats! Whether you’re coming to Bangkok for a facelift, tummy tuck, rhinoplasty, or liposuction, preparing your body and mind properly before surgery is essential for success. That means knowing not just what to do, but also what to avoid.

Many patients focus so much on post-surgery care that they overlook the importance of the pre-op phase. But truthfully? What you do (or don’t do) in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery can affect your outcome, recovery speed, and even your risk of complications.

Here’s an in-depth guide to what you shouldn’t do before plastic surgery — and why it matters:

1. Don’t Smoke or Vape

This is the big one. Nicotine in any form (cigarettes, vapes, cigars, patches, even some gums) reduces blood flow, which can seriously impair healing. For surgeries like facelifts, breast augmentation, or tummy tucks, where blood supply to skin and tissue is crucial, smoking can literally destroy your results.

Risks include:

• Delayed wound healing
• Skin necrosis (death of skin tissue)
• Increased infection risk
• Poor scar formation
• Higher risk of anesthesia complications

How long before surgery should you stop?

• Ideally 4–6 weeks before AND after your procedure. Some surgeons may test your nicotine levels prior to surgery — and will cancel if you’ve been smoking.

Tip: Consider this your chance to quit for good. Your results and health will thank you!

2. Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol may be relaxing, but it thins your blood and affects your liver’s ability to metabolize anesthesia and pain meds. Even moderate drinking before surgery can raise your risk of excessive bleeding and bruising.

Avoid alcohol for:

• At least 72 hours before surgery (many surgeons recommend 7–10 days if possible)
• And during the first week after surgery while on medications

Also important: Don’t binge drink in the weeks before. Chronic alcohol use affects your immune system and increases surgical risks.

3. Don’t Take Blood-Thinning Medications or Supplements

Many patients unknowingly take over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements that can cause dangerous bleeding during surgery.

Avoid these for at least 1–2 weeks before surgery (unless directed otherwise):

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
• Naproxen (Aleve)
• Fish oil
• Vitamin E
• Garlic supplements
• Ginkgo Biloba
• Ginseng
• Turmeric
• St. John’s Wort

Always tell your doctor everything you’re taking — including teas, powders, and multivitamins.

4. Don’t Schedule Other Cosmetic Treatments Too Close to Surgery

Getting a chemical peel, laser session, microneedling, or injectable a few days before surgery may seem tempting, but it can actually interfere with healing.

Avoid skin treatments for at least 2–3 weeks before surgery if:

• You’re having facial surgery (facelift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery)
• You have sensitive or acne-prone skin

Why?

• These treatments can cause redness, sensitivity, or inflammation that might compromise surgery or increase infection risk.

Save these for after you’re fully healed.

5. Don’t Ignore Pre-Op Instructions (Even the Small Ones!)

Surgeons usually give you a list of do’s and don’ts in the days before your procedure. They might seem overly detailed — but they exist for a reason.

Follow instructions about:

• Fasting before surgery (usually no food/drinks 8 hours prior)
• Washing with antibacterial soap the night before
• Avoiding lotion, deodorant, makeup, or perfume on surgery day
• Clothing choices — wear loose, front-button clothes

Ignoring these steps can delay your surgery or affect safety.

6. Don’t Travel Last Minute

If you're flying into Bangkok or traveling from another city, give yourself at least 2–3 days to rest and settle before your surgery date.

Why this matters:

• Jet lag and dehydration can affect surgery readiness
• You need time for pre-op consults, blood work, or allergy tests
• Stress and rushing increase cortisol, which can affect healing

Arrive early, hydrate, and take it easy. Many patients spend the day before surgery relaxing at their hotel.

7. Don’t Crash Diet or Over-Exercise

While being healthy is key, extreme dieting or intense workouts just before surgery can backfire.

Risks include:

• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalance
• Increased fatigue during recovery
• Muscle inflammation or injury that interferes with rest

Instead:

• Eat balanced, nutrient-dense meals in the 1–2 weeks before surgery
• Stay active, but avoid heavy lifting or overexertion the week before

Think of nourishment, not punishment.

8. Don’t Go Solo Without a Plan

Even if you're traveling alone, make sure someone (a friend, concierge, or medical travel agency) is aware of your plans.

Why this matters:

• You’ll need someone to help you get to your hotel post-op
• You shouldn’t be alone right after general anesthesia
• Having a point of contact in Bangkok gives peace of mind in emergencies

Tip: Agencies like Beauty Butler can assist with local support, transport, and check-ins to make sure you’re never alone in your journey.

9. Don’t Forget to Mentally Prepare

Pre-surgery jitters are real — but so is mental preparation. Going into surgery with a calm, clear mind helps recovery.

Try this:

• Visualize your recovery journey
• Journal your reasons for surgery
• Practice breathwork or meditation
• Set realistic expectations (no procedure is magic — healing takes time)

Your mindset is just as important as your meds.

Final Thoughts 

Your pre-surgery prep is the foundation for great results. By avoiding these common mistakes and following your surgeon’s advice, you’re giving your body the best chance to heal, look great, and feel amazing post-op.

At Beauty Butler, we specialize in helping international clients navigate surgery in Thailand with ease. Our experienced team works closely with top-tier clinics in Bangkok to ensure every patient is fully informed, supported, and confident — from planning through recovery.

Have questions about preparing for surgery in Thailand? Contact us today for a free consultation and personalized support every step of the way.

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