We’re not just about compression garments, what compression is right or how to care for your garments. Medico International Inc. is committed to sharing the pertinent information you “need to know.”

Find the answers for your post-op needs before facial surgery, liposuction, Brazilian butt lift/natural fat augmentation, gynecomastia, breast reconstruction or augmentation, weight loss or bariatric surgery and other surgical procedures by clicking on the below links.

Two Weeks Before: Preparing for Surgery

Schedule – Plan your surgery close to the weekend; use your weekend to recover before resuming activities.

Complete your pre-admissions testing/screening – You may need to have blood drawn and/or other pre-op tests 1-2 weeks before your surgery. Schedule accordingly and review the below items with your doctor(s).

  • Current Prescriptions: review any medications you are taking with your doctor to determine which, if any, you need to stop taking. This may include skin care lotions, pain medications, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and/or blood pressure medication.
  • Post-op Prescriptions: will you need to take medication post-op?
  • Medication Administration: chart when to take your medications (with your doctor or staff).

 

Compression garments

Discuss compression garments and sizing with your surgeon and order them before the surgery date. It is important that you have a compression garment to wear immediately after surgery. Unlike shapewear or foundations, these garments are designed with the appropriate amount of compression to reduce swelling and flush out potentially harmful fluids. You will need to wear your garment for several weeks. If the physician is providing one Stage One garment, it is recommended you purchase a second one for use during laundering. Ask your doctor if you will need a stage two garment, and make that purchase as well.

Discuss products to reduce swelling, minimize discomfort and anti-scaring treatments – Purchase post-op recovery products and follow your doctor’s instructions for their use. These may include:


Clean House – Do your laundry and general housekeeping. Check your house for items that are conducive to accidents – loose throw rugs/carpets, bath mats, electrical cords and other items you could trip over. Put nightlights in the bathroom, hallways and bedrooms, as needed.

Make arrangements for childcare and pet care – You can’t do everything.  Have someone around to help take care of your loved ones while you recover at home. Prepare a list of important telephone numbers. Contact home care specialists or RNs, if needed. Ask the plastic surgeon for a nursing agency if no one else is available.

Plan Meals – Do grocery shopping and prepare meals to be frozen and eaten during recovery. Consider stocking low sodium soup, crackers, bottled water, energy drinks and gelatin.

Prepare your Surgery Recovery Area – Put a plastic mattress liner (for protection) and clean linens on your bed. Have  extra pillows on hand, if needed. Make items such as a remote control for the TV, laptop computer and cell/portable phone accessible.

Arrange transportation – Your doctor will not allow you to leave alone following surgery. Make arrangements to have a driver available for you.

Have someone stay with you for 24 hours – Have a friend or family member stay with you overnight to assist and/or in case of emergency.

The Last Minute – Be flexible. Your doctor may want you to come into the office to do some lab work a few days before the surgery. Find out when you should stop eating and what to eat before surgery. Relax, wash your hair and get a good night’s rest the day prior to surgery. Do not take valuables to the hospital. Make sure you have keys and plan a safe place to leave your wallet and jewelry.

Please be aware that information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.