Surgery Planner 9/7/16

PLASTIC SURGERY PLANNER
TIPSTO MANAGE A SPEEDY RECOVERY

WHAT’S INSIDE: I frequently tell my patients that surgery is a team sport.While the patient is the star player, he or she is
supported by a team consisting of their caregivers, well-wishers and family, me and my office staff, and the staff of the
hospital or surgery center.And like all successful endeavors, careful planning is key for a “win” on game day.When it comes
to surgery, this is all about preparing for both the operation, and the recovery.Think of this Plastic Surgery Planner as your
playbook. It is good for you to read it well ahead of your surgery, and to share it with the members of your team who will be
helping with your recovery.
Kris B. Shewmake, M.D. TipsTo Manage a Speedy Recovery www.shewmakeplasticsurgery.com
4 HonorThy Recovery 19 PreparingYour Nest 30 5 Reasons to Call our Office
5 Time Off for Popular Procedures 21 Pre Surgery Primping 32 Swelling
6 The Right Mindset 22 The Day Before 33 Sex After Plastic Surgery:GladYou Asked
7 Your SupportTeam 23 Day of Surgery: Do’s & Don’ts 34 Scars Happen
8 PrepareYourself Physically 24 Recommendations After Surgery 35 The Skin Retreat
13 Medications toAvoid Now! 26 Warning Signs 36 Last but Not Least
15 Details, Details, Details 27 ShoweringAfter Surgery
16 Surgery Shopping List 28 The Emotional Roller Coaster

THE PLASTIC SURGERY PLANNER
If you’re like most patients scheduling plastic surgery procedures, you probably have a lot of questions. More than likely you’ve
talked to some friends who have had procedures and have done some research online.We know that the preparation, planning,
and recovery from plastic surgery can get pretty overwhelming. So we thought you would appreciate some advice and strategies
from our staff. In the next several pages, we are going to drill down into the nitty gritty of how to prepare for your plastic surgery
and what to do to recover well and quickly.These are best practices that we have learned throughout the years, mainly by
listening to our patients, but also in some cases by having the procedures done ourselves.
Jennifer, R.N. Angela, R.N. Alicia, M.A.
Raeann, Patient Coordinator Charlotte, Front Office Coordinator Traci

HONORTHY RECOVERY
■ Recovery is about time. And time is our most
precious commodity. None of us can add
another hour to our days, another day to our
months, or another year to our lives. So we
are naturally careful and jealous of our time.
■ The time of recovery from surgery – time
away from work and normal activities – is a
major concern. Frequently finding the time to
recover isTHE major stumbling block when it
comes to scheduling an operation.
■ It’s understandable. We all lead busy lives, so
it’s very hard to get enough time off from
work to recovery fully. And because time is at
such a premium, many of us try to trim down,
or cut short the time that we need to recover.
Trying to get back into the swing of things
before you are ready can sometimes cause
your recovery to take longer.
■ If there were ten commandments
about plastic surgery, one of them
would be “HonorThy Recovery.”
Those who do will find the whole
process easier, and the ultimate
outcome better.

RECOMMENDEDTIME OFF
FOR OUR MOST POPULAR
PROCEDURES
These recovery times are the average time patients take
off from work to recover from their surgery. If your job is
physically strenuous, you'll need more time. Likewise,
downtime is a particular concern to our facial plastic
surgery patients. If you bruise easily or are very concerned
that no one know you had anything done, you may need
longer.
■ BREAST AUGMENTATION 3-5 DAYS
■ BREAST LIFT 4-7 DAYS
■ BRACHIOPLASTY (ARM LIFT) 5-7 DAYS
■ LIPOSUCTION 3-5 DAYS
■ TUMMY TUCK 2-3 WEEKS
■ MOMMY MAKEOVER 2-3 WEEKS (Tummy Tuck/Breast Combined)
■ BROW LIFT 1-2 WEEKS
■ FACELIFT 2 WEEKS
■ EYELID SURGERY 5-7 DAYS
It is always better to schedule MORE recovery time than
you think you’ll need. It will be a nice surprise if you get
back to your routine early, and you’ll avoid the stress of
worrying about whether or not you’ll be ready.

START GETTINGYOURSELF INTHE RIGHT MINDSET
You are having plastic surgery!
MOST OF OUR PATIENTS HAVE BEEN DREAMING OF THIS DAY FOR QUITE
SOME TIME. IT IS NORMAL TO BE EXCITED AND AT THE SAME TIME VERY
NERVOUS AND APPREHENSIVE. AFTER ALL, BIG CHANGES ARE COMING
YOUR WAY.
YOUR POSITIVE MENTAL ATTITUDE WILL GO A LONG WAY IN ENSURING
THATYOU RECOVER WELL AND HAVE THE OUTCOMEYOU’VE ALWAYS
WANTED. WE DO HAVE SOME SUGGESTIONS THAT WORK WELL TO
MANAGE THOSE NERVES SOYOU CAN SHOW UP THE DAY OFYOUR
SURGERY RELAXED AND READY TO GO.
ONE OF THE BIGGEST CAUSES OF ANXIETY IS THE FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN.
EXPECT THAT ASYOUR SURGERY DATE GETS CLOSER,YOU’RE GOING TO
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS THAT COME UP.WRITE THEM DOWN ASYOU THINK
OF THEM SOYOU DON’T FORGET TO ASK WHENYOU COME IN.THIS GOES
FORYOUR PRE OP APPOINTMENT,THE DAY OFYOUR SURGERY, OR ANY OF
YOUR FOLLOW-UP VISITS.
Remember that we are here for you, no question is stupid and
we are just a phone call away.
THE INTERNET IS AND IS NOTYOUR FRIEND.ONCEYOU’VE MADE
YOUR DECISION TO HAVE PLASTIC SURGERY AND ARE COMFORTABLE
WITH DR. SHEWMAKE, A BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON,
DON’T GO SECOND-GUESSINGYOURSELF. IFYOU HAVE A CONCERN,
ASKYOUR DOCTOR, NOT GOOGLE. NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO
TORTUREYOURSELF BY SEARCHING ONLINE FOR BAD PLASTIC
SURGERY OUTCOMES.
PrepareYourself ForThe Haters. As much as you can, surround
yourself with positive people, but know that you may run into
folks who will question your decision to have surgery. Some are
kind and will tell you that you look great as you are. Others may
be opinionated, vocal and even jealous. Just expect that this
could happen at some point either before or after your surgery
and don’t get blindsided. It helps to recognize that this is your
decision not theirs.That said, if you find yourself feeling
debilitated by fear at the thought of your surgery, you may
want to do some more thinking.

START LINING UPYOUR SUPPORTTEAM
Most of our patients are very independent and let’s face it- they’re used to being
the ones who provide support for others. So when you are planning on having
elective plastic surgery, it can be uncomfortable asking others for help. But this is
one thing that you cannot do alone.
The amount of help you’ll need really depends on your situation. Many patients
take care of others as a normal part of their routine. If you have young children or
elderly parents at home you’ll need double-duty support....For you and for them.
This is the perfect time for the kids to visit grandma. Just make sure that you have
someone else at home appointed to take care of you.
At the bare minimum, and we mean the very barest minimum, you’ll need
someone to drive you to and from your surgery, stay with you for 24 hours after
your procedure and drive you to your first post operative appointment. For more
extensive procedures like tummy tucks, body lifts, and mommy makeovers, you’ll
need someone to stay with you for at least the first 2-3 days.
Ask a positive person to be your caregiver
You know who they are: the people in your life who always lift your spirits. You
want someone who’s really going to put your needs first and who won’t say to
you when you first get home, “why in the world did you do this to yourself?” Get
someone supportive and caring because you’re really going to need that.
No taxis!
We have had patients who want to have someone
drop them off for their surgery and then call a cab
to bring them home.This is a big no-no. Besides
all of the patient safety reasons why this is not a
great idea, the surgery center will not release you
to a taxi driver. If you really don’t have someone
who can drive you and stay with you at home after
surgery, we can arrange a reliable post operative
overnight caregiver. Just ask.

START A HEALTHY DIET
SO IFYOU GET THE BEST RESULTS FROMYOUR SURGERY THE CLOSERYOU ARE TOYOUR IDEAL BODY WEIGHT, NOW MUST BE THE
TIME TO GO ON A SUPER LOW-CALORIE DIET RIGHT? WRONG! WE HEAR THIS ALL THE TIME FROM PATIENTS PLANNINGTHEIR
SURGERY. CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF, CRASH-DIETING BEFOREYOUR SURGERY IS COMPLETELY COUNTER-PRODUCTIVE.
YOUR BODY NEEDS PROTEIN, CARBOHYDRATES, IRON, NUTRIENTS ANDYES, EVEN FAT,TO RECOVER PROPERLY. SO EAT A HEALTHY, BALANCED
DIET, SKIP THE ALCOHOL, AND DON’T GO CRAZY CUTTING CALORIES.

EXERCISE WISELY
NOW IS NOT THE TIME TO START A NEW AGGRESSIVE WORKOUT ROUTINE.YOU
WANT TO MAINTAINYOUR LEVEL OF FITNESS WHILE AVOIDING INJURIES, SO
DON’T OVER-DO-IT. INSTEAD,THINK ABOUT LIGHT CARDIO, LOW-WEIGHT
STRENGTH TRAINING AND PARTICULARLY STRETCHING. BARRE WORKOUTS,
YOGA AND PILATES CLASSES ARE GREAT CHOICES BECAUSE THEY
CONCENTRATE ONYOUR OVERALL WELL-BEING AND POSTURE. FOCUS ON
STRENGTHENING AND STRETCHINGYOUR CORE MUSCLES (BACK AND ABS).
THIS IS PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT FOR TUMMY TUCK AND BODY LIFT
PATIENTS. AFTERYOUR SURGERYYOU MAY BE ANXIOUS TO GET BACK TOYOUR
REGULAR EXERCISE ROUTINE, BUT IT’S IMPORTANT TO TAKE IT EASY.
ENGAGING IN VIGOROUS EXERCISE TOO SOON AFTER SURGERY CAN RESULT IN
SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS COMPLICATIONS, LIKE INFLAMMATION AND
SWELLING, RE-OPENING OF INCISIONS, POST OPERATIVE SCARRING, AND
INFECTION.YOU SHOULD WAIT AT LEAST FOUR TO SIX WEEKS BEFORE
RETURNING TOYOUR NORMAL EXERCISE ROUTINE, BUT THAT DOESN’T MEAN
YOU HAVE TO SPEND FOUR TO SIX WEEKS IN BED.TAKING TWO OR THREE
SHORT WALKS THROUGHOUT THE DAY HELPS AVOID BLOOD CLOTS AND
FURTHER COMPLICATIONS.THE KEY IS TO START LIGHT AND SLOWLY EASE
YOUR WAY BACK TOYOUR NORMAL ROUTINE. DIFFERENT TYPES OF COSMETIC
PROCEDURES REQUIRE DIFFERENT TYPES OF POST OPERATIVE PHYSICAL
ACTIVITY. IT’S BEST TO CONSULT WITH DR. SHEWMAKE OR ONE OF HIS NURSES
BEFOREHAND.

WE KNOWTHEY LOVEYOU AND WANTTO HELP, BUT . . .
STARTTHINKING ABOUTYOUR PETS
OK,THIS IS ONE TIME WHENYOUR DOG OR CAT
MAY NOT BEYOUR BEST FRIEND. PETS LIKETO
JUMP UPTO GREETYOU AND SLEEP INYOUR
BED. PLUS, THEY ARE EASY TOTRIP OVER. THEY
NEEDTO BE LET OUT, FED, WATERED, AND
TAKEN FOR AWALK.
SO, IFYOU HAVE PETS, BE SURE TOTAKETHEM
INTO CONSIDERATION WHENYOU ARE
PREPARING FORYOUR SURGERY. ALTHOUGH
WE ENCOURAGE MILD EXERCISE AFTER
SURGERY,YOU WON’T FEEL LIKE GETTING OUT
OF BED ANY MORETHANYOU HAVETO FOR THE
FIRST COUPLE OF DAYS. PETS OFTEN HAVE
NEEDS AT INCONVENIENTTIMES.

DO NOT GET PREGNANT!
THIS MAY SEEMOBVIOUS IFYOUARE PLANNINGTO
HAVE PLASTIC SURGERY. IFYOUAREA FEMALEWHO
COULDCONCEIVABLYGET PREGNANT,YOUWILL
ALWAYS BEASKEDTOTAKEA PREGNANCYTESTAT
THE SURGERYCENTER BEFOREYOUR PROCEDURE.
BOTTOM LINE: IFYOUARE SEXUALLYACTIVE, BE SURE
YOU USE EFFECTIVE BIRTH CONTROL.

JUST QUIT NOW! IT’S NO SECRETTHAT SMOKING IS BAD FORYOU. MOST PEOPLE ARE AWARETHAT IT CAN HINDERYOUR
RECOVERY AFTER ANY SURGERY, BUT NOT MANY PEOPLE UNDERSTANDTHAT THIS IS A MUCH BIGGER ISSUE WHENYOU’RE HAVING PLASTIC SURGERY.THIS IS BECAUSE
PLASTIC SURGICAL OPERATIONS LIVE ON THE EDGE OFYOUR BLOOD SUPPLY.
When doing these operations, plastic surgeons are really
operating at the limit of what the circulation to the skin and
other tissues will allow. But, in order to have adequate
circulation, they not only need to leave enough blood vessels
intact, they must also make sure that the blood which flows
through these blood vessels is sufficient. Certain things can
affect this blood flow and the biggest and baddest of these is
cigarette smoke. Although the nicotine in the cigarette smoke
is the most dangerous element, the carbon monoxide and the
hydrogen cyanide don’t help much either.
AS MUCH ASYOU ARE ABLE, PLEASE STAYAWAY FROM
SECOND HAND SMOKE, E-CIGARETTES,VAPE PENS,
NICOTINE PATCH, NICOTINE GUM, CIGARS, HOOKAH,
AND MARIJUANA.
IFYOU ARE UNABLE TO QUIT COMPLETELY BE HONEST WITH DR.
SHEWMAKE AS HE MAY WANT TO ADJUSTYOUR SURGICAL
APPROACH.

STOPTAKINGTHESE OVER-THE-COUNTER DRUGSANDVITAMINS….
ASPIRIN, IBUPROFEN (MOTRIN/ADVIL), DIET PILLS,AND COMMONVITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS MAY CAUSE BLEEDING AFTER
SURGERY, INCREASE SWELLING, RAISE BLOOD PRESSURE OR ALTERYOUR SUGAR LEVELS. FOLLOW THE CHART BELOW FOR
TIMELINE GUIDELINES FOR WHEN TO STOP TAKING CERTAIN MEDICATIONS AND SUPPLEMENTS. ACETAMINOPHEN (TYLENOL) IS
OK.
3 WEEKS
ASPIRIN, ADVILOR
MOTRIN
IBUPROFEN
BC POWDER
PHENTERMINE
(ANY DIET PILLSOR
HERB
BLENDS DESIGNED
TO
CONTROL
APPETITE)
ADDERALL
VYVANSE
VITAMINE E
FISH OIL
1 WEEK
CHROMIUM
SAW PALMETTO
GARLIC
EPHEDRA
GINGER
GINSENG
GINKGO
FEVERFEW
GOLDENSEAL
KAVA-KAVA
FLAXSEED
ST. JOHN’SWORT
ECHINACEA
VALERIAN ROOT
LICORICE
BIOTIN

Vitamins & Minerals
Start 2 weeks before surgery
ARNICA MONTANA 30X:TAKINGARNICA MONTANAWILL AID IN
OBTAININGTEMPORARY RELIEF FROM BRUISING, SWELLING
AND PAIN ASSOCIATEDWITH SOFTTISSUE INJURY. CONTINUE
TAKINGARNICA MONTANAAFTERYOUR SURGERY UNTIL
BRUISING AND SWELLING HAVE SUBSIDED (USUALLY 7TO 14
DAYS).WEWILL PROVIDETHESE FORYOU.
PROBIOTIC:WE HAVE FOUNDTHATTAKING PROBIOTICS BEFORE
ANDAFTER PLASTIC SURGERY HELPS ALLEVIATE DIGESTIVE SIDE
EFFECTS BOTH FROMTAKINGANTIBIOTICS (DIARRHEA AND
YEAST INFECTIONS)AND PAIN MEDICATION (CONSTIPATION).
STARTATTWOTOTHREEWEEKS PRIORTO SURGERY ONCE A DAY
ON AN EMPTY STOMACH,AND INCREASETOTWICE A DAY
FOLLOWINGYOUR SURGERY.THESE MAY BE PURCHASEDAT
YOUR PHARMACY.
TAKE PROBIOTICS
2 HOURS BEFORE OR
2 HOURS AFTER TAKING ANTIBIOTICS

PRESCRIPTIONS DETAILS, DETAILS, DETAILS
Medical Records
You’ll get your prescriptions at your pre op appointment.
We give them to you then so you have plenty of time to
get them filled and you’re not having to drive through
your pharmacy on the way home from the surgery center.
Now is a good time to get them filled and study up a bit.
Read the instructions and become familiar with what you
have and call us before your surgery with any questions or
concerns.
Be sure to come up with a system of how you are going to
keep track of what medications you’ve taken and when
because it’s easy to lose track when you’re groggy. The
Recovery Room Nurse will discuss this with your caregiver
as well.
You should know:There is a difference between taking
prescriptions “as directed” and “as needed.” “As directed”
medications are the ones you take for a set period of time
until they are all gone, for example, your antibiotics. “As
needed” medications are taken to treat a symptom, for
example, your pain pills and nausea medication. If you
don’t need them, great! If you do need them, don’t take
them more frequently than what is instructed on the
bottle unless discussed with Dr. Shewmake or his nurse.
The same thing goes for medical records from other
doctors. If Dr. Shewmake needs to see records from your
other doctors, we’ll have you fill out the records release
form and we’ll fax it while you’re here in the office. Please
touch base with us and the doctor’s office sending us the
records to help make sure we have your health
information on hand, again, prior to your pre op
appointment.

We’ve put together a list of supplies you’ll want to have on hand to make your recovery as comfortable
as possible. It is broken down into the “must-haves” and “nice-to-haves.” All of the
nice-to-haves are suggestions from our previous patients about what worked well for them.
DIAL ANTIBACTERIAL FOAMY SOAP: You’ll use this in the shower the morning of your surgery,
but you’ll understand why we recommend this unscented foamy soap after your procedure. You can be
very gentle with it and still get clean.
MILK OF MAGNESIA: Pain medication can be quite constipating so it’s good to have some of this in
your medicine cabinet. The probiotics do help with this, but if you need it, you’ll be glad it’s there.
Other options are Colace stool softener and Miralax laxative. (We provide Surgilax to all of our surgery
patients.)
ICE PACKS: Clean wash rags soaked in an ice bucket generally work well. Our office provides small
icepacks at your pre operative visit. DO NOT USE frozen peas, corn, or any other frozen vegetable in
your freezer. Even though they might be more conforming at first, they thaw out way too quickly and
need to be changed too often to be practical. The longest lasting ice to use is regular freezer ice. It
may feel rough around the edges at first, but will quickly soften to contour.
”MUST HAVES”

RAZORSWITH BUILT-IN SHAVE BARS:WHENYOU ARE SHAVING AFTERYOUR SURGERY,YOU’LL WANT
IT TO BE AS EASY AS POSSIBLE.OUR TWO FAVORITES ARE VENUS BREEZE OR SCHICK INTUITION.
EXTRA CLOTHING: (BODY PATIENTS)YOU ARE GOINGTO BE WEARING A GARMENT AFTER SURGERY AND
YOU’LL NEED A GOOD SUPPLY OF CAMISOLES (GIRLS)OR UNDERSHIRTS (GUYS)TO WEAR UNDERYOUR
GARMENT. FOR MALE CHEST REDUCTION PATIENTS,YOU’LL NEED AN EXTRA COMPRESSION VEST AND IT
SHOULD FIT SNUGLY.WE PROVIDEYOU WITH ONE.ADDITIONAL GARMENTS MAY BE PURCHASED IN OUR
OFFICE.
DRESSINGS:YOU’LL NEED DRESSINGS FORYOUR INCISIONS.GUESS WHAT IS INEXPENSIVE AND WORKS
GREAT? MAXI PADS FOR TUMMY AND BODY LIFT PATIENTS AND PANTY LINERS FOR BREAST AND
LIPOSUCTION PATIENTS.WE WILL PROVIDE WHATYOU NEED TO GET STARTED.
FLEX STRAWSAND COLGATEWISPS: FLEX STRAWS ARE LITTLE GUYS THAT MAKE DRINKING IN BED
MUCH EASIER AND COLGATE WISPS GETYOUR TEETH CLEAN AND FRESHENYOUR MOUTH WITHOUT WATER.
”NICETO HAVES”

SHOPPING LIST (continued)
ABOUT SHOWER CHAIRS:Another reason to choose your caregiver wisely is you may need help
taking a shower at home. If you have a seat built into your shower, you’re in business. If not, shower chairs
are available on Amazon starting at $40 and may be a good investment if you are having a tummy tuck or
extensive liposuction.
SINGLE-SERVE NUTRITIOUS SNACKS/MEALS:You’ll get hungry and won’t feel like cooking.Think soup,
jello, power bars, fruit, nuts, real fruit popsicles, etc. Single servings of carrot dippers, apple dippers or
hummus also work great. If you are super-industrious, consider cooking ahead and freezing some individual
portions of your favorite meals that you can defrost and eat after your surgery.
RECOVERY ENTERTAINMENT:This is the time to stock up on books, magazines, DVD’s, apps,
audiobooks, and Netflix downloads you enjoy. Pick things that are light and fun and cheer you up. It’s a
perfect excuse to watch episodes of nostalgicTV shows! Be careful with your favorite laugh-out-loud
comedies because laughing after some surgeries may cause discomfort for a few days.
Definitely don’t plan on doing too much serious work in bed for the first couple of days. Seriously.
When you’re taking pain medication, you may not remember very much later!

PrepareYour Nest
THEREARE MANY LITTLETHINGSYOU CAN DO NOWTO
MAKEYOUR HOME MORE RECOVERY-FRIENDLY. IT’S KIND
OF LIKECHILD-PROOFINGYOUR HOUSE ONLYYOU GETTO
REAPTHE BENEFITS! ALLOFTHESE SUGGESTIONSARE
FROM OUR PREVIOUS PATIENTS, SO HOPEFULLYYOU’LL
FIND SOME GOOD IDEAS FORYOUR “NEST.”YOU MAY NOT
NEEDALL OFTHESE IDEAS IMMEDIATELYAFTERYOUR
SURGERY, BUTWHENYOUARE ONYOUR OWN AFTER
YOUR CAREGIVER LEAVES,YOU’LL BE GLADTO HAVE
THEM.THANKYOUTOOUR SPECIAL PATIENTSWHO GAVE
USTHESE IDEASTO SHARE.
MOVEATABLE NEXTTOYOUR BED (OR RECLINER) AND
PUT ALLTHINGSYOUTHINKYOU MAY NEED ON IT:
REMOTE CONTROL, IPAD,CELL PHONE, CHARGERS,
MAGAZINES, BOOKS, DRINKS, FLEX STRAWS, LIGHT
SNACKS,CHAPSTICK,COLGATEWISPS, PONYTAIL
HOLDERS, HEAD SCARF, ANDA NOTEPADAND PENTO
WRITE DOWN QUESTIONSASTHEY COME UP.YOU
SHOULDALSO KEEPTHISGUIDEANDYOUR PRE OP
BOOKLET HANDY.
BE SUREYOU’VE PICKED UP ALLOFYOUR PRESCRIPTION
MEDICATIONSAND KEEPTHEMTOGETHER,ALONGWITH
YOUR SURGICALVITAMINSAND PROBIOTICS, ONYOUR
BEDSIDETABLE.
￭ IFYOU HAVE SURGICAL DRAINS, PUT A MEASURING CUP NEXTTOYOUR BATHROOM
SINK.
￭ MAKE SURE ALL OFYOUR IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS ARE PROGRAMMED INTO
YOUR PHONE. ESPECIALLY OUR NUMBER (501) 492-8970,YOUR CAREGIVER’S NUMBER,
ANDTHE PHONE NUMBERS OF PEOPLEWHO CHEERYOU UP.
￭ HAVE LOTSOF PILLOWS ANDTHROW BLANKETS NEARYOUR BED.

PREPAREYOUR NEST (continued)
￭ Organize all the items in the fridge you think you’ll need for easy access. If you use milk, buy half gallons rather than full gallons.
Same goes for other drinks you like; get the smaller size for now.
￭ Put paper plates, cups, and bowls on your counter along with plastic silverware. It’s light and it won’t be a big deal if you drop it. Also
you won’t have to wash anything. Consider leaving the pots you use out on the burners. It’s so much easier than bending over to get
them!
￭ Same thing with your bathroom. Put everything you’ll be using on the bathroom counter: deodorant, toothbrush and toothpaste,
etc. Also make sure you’re stocked with toilet paper and feminine products if you think you’ll need them.
￭ A little “pampering.” Some patients mentioned they usedCharmin or other wipes because you can’t reach as well to wipe, and kept
a spare pair of underwear handy in the bathroom. Something to consider for body patients, because removing compression garments
and going to the bathroom can be a bit of a project at first.
￭ If you normally carry a heavy purse, go through it and be brutal. Remove everything you don’t really need (most of it we don’t really
need all the time, right?).You may even go crazy and switch to a small bag, just this once.This happens every time when you start
getting back into your normal routine, you’ll tend to want to do too much, and carrying a heavy purse all over the place just tires you
out more.
￭ Recommended recovery clothes should consist of loose elastic pants and even yoga pants are comfy after surgery.You’ll be wanting
loose button up shirts and pj tops so you don’t have to pull things over your head. Don’t wear anything super nice because drainage
could get on your clothes and you are more likely to spill drinks on yourself while taking pain medication.
￭ Have some cash handy so your caregiver can run out and pick up things at the store as needed.

PRE-SURGERY
PRIMPING
(THIS SECTION IS MAINLY FOR WOMEN, SO
GUYS YOU CAN GO ON TO THE NEXT PAGE.)
LADIES, LET’S FACE IT,WHENYOU ARE
RECOVERING FROM SURGERY, ANY
SURGERY,YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINES
ARE GOING TO SUFFER. SO IT PAYS TO
BE SMART AND GET SOME THINGS
DONE RIGHT BEFOREYOUR SURGERY
DATE IFYOU KNOW THEY WOULD
OTHERWISE BUGYOU WHILEYOU’RE
HEALING.
￭ DON’T BE AFRAID TO COLOR OR
HIGHLIGHTYOUR HAIR. IT WILL BE
AWHILE BEFOREYOU CAN COLOR
YOUR HAIR, PARTICULARLY IFYOU’RE
HAVING A FACELIFT, NECKLIFT
AND/OR BROWLIFT (3-4WEEKS).
￭ GIVEYOURSELF A PEDICURE.YOU MIGHT
NOT WANT TO BE STARING AT RAGGEDY
TOENAILS ONYOUR BED FOR A WEEK. IFYOU
WANT A MANICURE, PICK OUT A PALE NAIL
POLISH COLOR SO THAT THE LIGHT WILL
TRANSMIT THROUGH THE POLISH TO OUR
MONITORS DURINGYOUR SURGERY. POLISH
ANDACRYLIC NAILS MUST BE
REMOVED FROM BOTH INDEX
FINGERS BEFORE SURGERY
￭ SHAVE OR WAX NOW BECAUSE IT’S HARD TO DO WHEN
YOU ARE UNCOMFORTABLE.
SCHEDULEYOUR LASER HAIR REMOVAL
AT THE SKIN RETREAT.
CALL 501-492-8967TO MAKE AN
APPOINTMENT TODAY!

Time to PackYour Bag 
Eat healthy and drink lots of fluids today, and by lots of
fluids, we don’t mean alcoholic beverages.
Remove dark-colored nail polish on your fingernails. Light
colored nail polish with no decals or designs is fine. Shellac
and artificial nails are fine as long as the polish is light.The
pulse oximeter needs to be able to shine through it.Your
toes are fine. Polish and acrylic nails must be removed
from both index fingers.
Confirm your arrival time and your route to and from the
surgery center with your caregiver who is driving you.
Take off all of your jewelry and remove all piercings now
so you don’t forget in the morning.
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight tonight!
Anything more than a small amount of water to brush
your teeth or take your medication is a big no-no and
could be unsafe during your surgery.This includes candy,
gum and mints.There is no wiggle-room here. We don’t
want to have to cancel your surgery.
Here are some things you will need to bring with you to
the surgery center. These include:
■ Your driver’s license and insurance card (if you have
one)
■ Eye glasses and case because you won’t be wearing
contacts
■ Your pre op bag with all prescriptions
■ Please DO NOT bring any valuables
■ Pillow and throw blanket to make you more
comfortable. Hugging the pillow against your
stomach will make you feel more secure if you’ve
had a tummy tuck or body lift.
RELAX,GOTO BED EARLY AND DON’T
FORGETTO SETYOUR ALARM CLOCK!

Day of Surgery Checklist…..TODAY’SYOUR BIG DAY
YOU HAVEN’T EATENOR DRANK ANYTHING SINCE MIDNIGHT LAST NIGHT.
CHECK.
YOU SHOWERED ANDWASHEDYOUR BODYWITH ANTIMICROBIAL SOAP
EITHER LAST NIGHTORTHIS MORNING. CHECK.
YOU HAVEN’T PUT ON ANY MAKEUP, DEODORANT, PERFUME, OR HAIR
SPRAY. CHECK.
YOU KNOWWHEREYOU’RE GOINGANDYOU HAVE SOMEONETO DRIVE
YOU, PICKYOU UP, AND STAYWITHYOU UNTILAFTERYOUR
POSTOPERATIVEVISIT. CHECK.
YOU’RE GIVINGYOURSELF PLENTY OFTIMETOGETTOTHE SURGERY
CENTER ONTIME. (DON’T FORGET ABOUT RUSH HOURTRAFFIC.) CHECK.
YOU’REWEARING LOOSE FITTINGCLOTHINGAND SOME SHOESTHATARE
EASYTO SLIP ON ANDWALK IN. CHECK.
YOU’RE NOT WEARING ANY CONTACT LENSES,JEWELRY,OR HAVE DARK FINGERNAIL
POLISH OR
ANY PIERCINGS.
YOU HAVEYOUR ID, INSURANCE CARD, EYEGLASSES,AND GLASSES CASE ONYOU AND
THE PILLOW AND THROW BLANKETS ARE IN THE CAR.
YOU’RE TAKING A CAR THAT’S EASY TO GET IN AND OUT OF.
IT’S TIME TO HEAD TO THE SURGERY CENTER!
THE SURGICAL PAVILION 501-227-9080

Recommendations Following Surgery –
SHARETHIS with your caregiver
REST, but don’t just stay in bed. Even though you
won’t feel like it, it’s important that you are
ambulatory, meaning walking under your own
strength, with your caregiver next to you if you need
help or feel woozy. Get up at least every 2 to 3 hours,
walk around a bit and use the restroom.
Elevate your head and chest.That’s 2 to 3 pillows
behind your back. If you’ve had a tummy tuck or a
body lift, you’ll also want to prop up your knees with
pillows or settle into a recliner (preferred) or lounge
chair.
Start your medications.Take them according to your
pre op instructions.
DEEP BREATHE,COUGHAND STRETCH.YOUR LUNGS NEED
TO WAKE UP AFTER ANESTHESIA TO PREVENTYOU FROM
ACCUMULATING FLUID. SO AT LEAST ONCE AN HOUR,TAKE FIVE
DEEP CLEANSING BREATHS.TUMMY TUCK PATIENTS, PUT A PILLOW
ONYOUR TUMMY AND HOLD IT SNUGGLY. COUGH THREE TIMES.

DRINK. DRINK. DRINK. FLUIDSARE CRITICAL AFTER SURGERY. DRINKAT LEAST 8 OUNCES EVERYTWO HOURS OF
CARBONATED LIQUIDS ONLY FORTWELVE HOURSAFTER SURGERYTO HELP PREVENT NAUSEA.YOU SHOULD HAVETO
URINATE EVERY FEW HOURS. IFYOU DON’T,YOU’RE NOT DRINKING ENOUGH. IFYOU FEEL LIKEYOU HAVETOGO BADLYAND
CAN’T, PLEASE CALL US (501-492-8970).
STARTYOUR ICE PACKS. STARTYOUR ICE PACKS NOW.YOU’LLWANTTO HAVETHEM 20 MINUTESON AND 20 MINUTES OFF
WHILEYOU’RE AWAKE, SO HAVEYOUR CAREGIVER PUTTHEM BACK INTHE FREEZER AFTERTHEY DEFROST.
EAT SOMETHING LIGHT.YOU’LLWANTTO EASE BACK INTO EATING.STARTWITH “COMFORT” FOODS LIKE JELLO, SOUP,
CRACKERS ANDTOAST UNTILYOU FEEL UPTO MORE SUBSTANTIAL MEALS. IT MAYTAKEYOUA DAY ORTWO.
AVOID SALT. EATING SALTY FOODS INCREASES SWELLING DURINGYOUR RECOVERY.TRYTO STAYAWAY FROM IT. (THIS
INCLUDES CHICKEN SOUP!)
DON’TTAKEYOUR POST SURGERY GARMENTSOFF. LEAVETHEM IN PLACE UNTIL SEEN POSTOPERATIVELYUNLESSYOU NEED
TOCHANGE OR REINFORCEYOUR BANDAGES.YOU’LL BEWEARINGYOUR SURGICAL BRA OR COMPRESSION GARMENT
AROUNDTHECLOCK EXCEPT WHILE SHOWERING.
DON’T SMOKE. IF EVERTHEREWASATIME NOTTO SMOKE,THIS IS IT! SMOKINGWILL GREATLY IMPAIRYOUR ABILITYTO HEAL
AFTER SURGERY. AND, PLEASE, NO SECOND-HAND SMOKE EITHER.
RELAX
REMEMBER, YOU JUST HAD SURGERY!
DON’T DO ANYTHING STRESSFUL. JUST LET YOUR CAREGIVER TAKE CARE OF YOU.
DON’T LIFT ANYTHING HEAVIER THAN A BOOK.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOLLOWING SURGERY (continued)

WARNING SIGNSTHAT REQUIRE IMMEDIATEATTENTION
YOU ORYOUR CAREGIVER SHOULDCALL 911 IMMEDIATELY IF
YOU HAVE:
■ CHEST PAIN UNRELATEDTOYOUR SURGERY
■ TROUBLE BREATHING / UNCOMFORTABLE SHORTNESSOF
BREATH
■ LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS
■ ANY OTHER MEDICAL EMERGENCY
CALL OUR OFFICE IMMEDIATELYAT 501-492-8970 IFYOU
EXPERIENCE ANY OFTHE FOLLOWING:
■ A HIGH FEVER (OVER 101.5), SEVERE NAUSEAAND
VOMITING,CONTINUED DIZZINESSOR INCOHERENT
BEHAVIOR SUCH AS HALLUCINATIONS
■ ANY PAINTHATCANNOT BE CONTROLLED BYYOUR PAIN
MEDICATION
■ BRIGHT RED SKINTHAT IS HOTTOTHETOUCH
■ EXCESSIVE BLEEDING OR EXCESSIVE FLUID SEEPING
THROUGHTHE INCISIONS
■ ONE BREASTTHAT IS SEVERELY PAINFULAND IS MUCH
LARGERTHANTHEOTHEROR BRUISINGTHAT IS
LOCALIZEDTOONE BREAST OR REGION OFTHECHEST
■ INABILITYTO URINATE DESPITETHE FEELING OFA FULL
BLADDER
■ A SUSPECTED REACTIONTOONEOFYOUR MEDICATIONS
IF IT ISAFTER HOURS,GO AHEADANDCALLTHE MEDICAL
EXCHANGETO SPEAKWITHTHEON-CALL PHYSICIAN OR NURSE
FOR INSTRUCTIONS. 501-663-6900

Showering After Surgery
■ This is the area that patients and their caregivers have the most questions
about, but it’s actually pretty straightforward. Showering depends on what
type of operation you have. Dr. Shewmake will discuss this with your
caregiver after surgery.
■ You’ll need some help from your caregiver in case you get dizzy in the
shower.This is also when a shower chair comes in handy.
■ Shower, using your antimicrobial foamy soap gently on your incision sites
and around your stitches.You may wash your hair if Dr. Shewmake has
instructed you (your caregiver) on this.
■ After you get out of the shower, gently dry off. If you would like, you can
cover your incisions with non-adhering dressings, panty liners, or maxi
pads depending on your procedure. If you have excessive oozing or if your
clothing is rubbing against your incision site(s), you may want to try the
panty liners or maxi pads. Use a bit of tape to hold in place if you want.
Then put your surgical bra on, then the binder or compression garment
and the rest of your loose fitting comfy clothes. Done!
■ Repeat tomorrow.

The EmOtIoNaL RoLlEr CoAsTeR
Please share this with your caregiver.
READY OR NOT,YOUR EMOTIONS MAY FEEL OUT OF CONTROL WHILEYOU ARE
RECOVERING FROM SURGERY. OVER THIS HILL MIGHT BE A GENTLE KIDDY RIDE
OR A FULL-FLEDGED ROLLER COASTER. IT’S JUST EASIER ONYOU ANDYOUR
CAREGIVER IFYOU EXPECTTHINGS TO BE A LITTLE ROCKY. PARTICULARLY
AFTER FACELIFTS.
SURGERY AFFECTS EACH PERSON’S EMOTIONS DIFFERENTLY.THE MOST
COMMON REACTION IS TO BE EXCITED BUT UNCOMFORTABLE FOR THE FIRST
FEW DAYS.THEN OUT OF NOWHERE OCCASIONAL PATIENTS GET IN THE
DUMPS.THISTYPICALLY HAPPENS WITHIN 3TO 5 DAYS AFTERYOUR SURGERY.
YOU MIGHT EVEN START ASKINGYOURSELF IFYOU MADE THE RIGHT DECISION.
EVEN IFYOU ARE NORMALLY ON A VERY EVEN EMOTIONAL KEEL,YOU COULD
FINDYOURSELF CRYING FOR NO REASON.THIS HAPPENS UNCOMMONLY, BUT
IS NOT ABNORMAL.
Procedures with longer recovery times like face lifts and tummy tucks
tend to have more emotionally rocky recovery times. You may even wear
out your caregiver. Things always get better and soon you’ll see the light
at the end of the tunnel. The best therapy is to get out of the house as
soon as possible. Getting out to a movie is great diversional therapy.

THE EMOTIONAL ROLLER COASTER: A GRAPH OFWHATYOU’LL FEEL DURINGTHIS
PROCESSCOULD LOOK LIKETHIS:
CONSULT SURGERY NEAR FUTURE
YOU MAY FEEL EXCITED, NERVOUS, ANXIOUS, ZONKED OUT/TIRED, HURT, CONFUSED...AND THEN YOU’LL SEE THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE
TUNNEL!

5 REASONSTO CALL OUR OFFICE
To Call or Not to Call? 501-492-8970
DEFINITELYCALL.
WE WANTTO GO ON RECORD BY SAYING:
WE WOULD MUCH RATHERYOU CALL WITH QUESTIONS THAN LOSE SLEEP OVER THE DETAILS.
1. YOU CAN’T REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT WAS SAID DURINGYOUR PRE OP VISIT. NO
WORRIES…THIS HAPPENS.AFTER ALL,YOU HAVE A LOT ONYOUR MIND AND A LOT OF
INFORMATION TO ABSORB. IFYOU CAN’T QUITE REMEMBER HOW TO TAKEYOUR
MEDICINE OR WHENYOU CAN GET BACK TO A CERTAIN ACTIVITY, JUST GIVE US A CALL.
2. You are not sure if you can go back to (or start) a certain activity. For the
first few weeks following a procedure you will most likely be restricted in
areas such as exercise and other medications. If you have a hankering to
start back with an activity but worry that it might be too early, just give us a
call.

5 REASONSTO CALL OUR OFFICE after your surgery (continued)
3. You have a spot/area/incision that looks a little different than the
rest. It is completely normal for some areas to heal a little
differently than others, however, if you are concerned, we don’t
want you to worry. Just give us a ring and let us know what is going
on.We are more than happy to set your mind at ease.You may want
to take a “selfie” and email or text it to us along with a call.
4. You feel a lot worse than anticipated. This is most likely
temporary, and tomorrow will be a new day. However, if your
recovery is not lining up with the information we gave you during
your pre op appointment, please give us a call.
5. MOST IMPORTANTLY: IFYOU ARE RUNNING A FEVER,VOMITING, HAVE
AN AREA THAT IS HOT TO THE TOUCH, UNUSUAL PAIN IN THE LEGS OR CHEST OR
TROUBLE BREATHING, OR ANY OTHER ALARMING SYMPTOMS…THESE COULD
BE SIGNS OF SOMETHING SERIOUS.CALL OUR OFFICE, 911,OR GO TO THE
NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM RIGHT AWAY.
THE POINT IS…WE LIKEYOUTOTOUCH BASEWITH US DURINGYOUR
RECOVERY IFYOU HAVEANY UNANSWERED QUESTIONSOR CONCERNS.
ALSO, IFYOUTHINKOF SOMETHINGYOU FORGOTTO MENTION,WE WANT
YOUTOCALL BECAUSEWE AREALWAYS HAPPYTO HELP.
501-492-8970

SWELLINGAFTER SURGERY One of the most common patient complaints is that they are “puffy” after their
procedure. It’s a natural concern.
As Dr. Shewmake says, “swelling has a mind of its own” and
the best treatment for swelling is patience. Here are a couple
of things that will help a little bit:
■ Avoid salty foods which increase swelling
■ Keep wearing your compression garments 24/7
■ Engage in light physical activity such as walking as much
as you can
One thing that you should not do is take diuretics unless
prescribed. Diuretics after surgery don’t help the swelling, but
they do cause dehydration which will further set you back. So
even if you think it’s a good idea, it may not be.

Sex After Plastic Surgery: GladYou Asked!
From time to time a patient or their spouse will ask me
when they can resume normal sexual activity after plastic
surgery.
The answer is 3-4 weeks depending upon the surgery.

SCARS HAPPEN!
Any patient who wants plastic surgery weighs the benefits of the result they want to achieve against the
inevitability of having a new scar.That’s because there is no such thing as scarless plastic surgery, despite all the
misinformation out there. Whenever a physician makes an incision, there will be a scar, however minor it may be.
One key to good plastic surgery is placing the scar where it will be less noticeable once it’s healed, because there
are areas of the body that do provide a natural camouflage. For example, Dr. Shewmake will make his incisions as
small as possible: in the natural crease of the breast, behind the ears, in the hairline or low on the belly where it will
be covered by a bikini bottom.
The best thing for scars is…time. They will continue to heal and improve for at least a year.

The Skin Retreat was conceived as the very best way to practice plastic surgery. Dr. Shewmake wished to provide his plastic surgery patients with not
only the very best in plastic surgery, but also to have available to his patients the latest in pre and post surgical treatments.These services are provided
in a unique environment that combines a medical atmosphere with elegant surroundings.The Skin Retreat offers innovative services with state-of-the-
art equipment.The technicians atThe Skin Retreat are available Monday through Friday for all your skin care needs. And best of all, it’s not just for
plastic surgery patients. Patients of all ages will find comfort and relief in our results-oriented skin therapy treatments.
The Skin Retreat offers many non-surgical procedures such as laser treatments for hair removal, veins (face and leg), and skin tightening, as well as
coolsculpting for non-surgical fat reduction, ultherapy, microdermabrasion, skin pen, skin peels, botox and filler injections, and much much more!

THE SURGICAL PAVILION
OUTPATIENT SURGERY CENTER
501·227·9088
AtThe Surgical Pavilion we utilize a fully staffed certified surgical
facility.The Surgical Pavilion was built, in part, for the private
patients of Shewmake Plastic Surgery & Skin Retreat.The center is
staffed by a group of exemplary professionals.
Due to the type of certification held byThe Surgical Pavilion, we are
able to perform all types of modern anesthesia and recovery for our
plastic surgery patients.You can rest assured that all the details
regarding safety and comfort have been perfected during the many
years we have been at this location.
The Surgical Pavilion is located immediately behind Baptist Hospital
off of Interstate 630.
ONE OF THE PRIMARY REASONS DR. SHEWMAKE USES THIS FACILITY ISTHAT
SAFETY IS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE PRIMARY CONCERN, BOTH AT SHEWMAKE
PLASTIC SURGERY & SKIN RETREAT AND THE SURGICAL PAVILION.TOTHAT
END,WE NOT ONLY HAVETHE MOST HIGHLY-TRAINED SURGERY CENTER
STAFF AVAILABLE, BUT ALL OF THE EQUIPMENT AT THE FACILITY IS STATE-OF-
THE-ART. ADDITIONALLY,THE CENTER HAS THE MOST UP TO DATE
EMERGENCY LIFE SUPPORT AND RESUSCITATION EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE,
COMBINED WITH EMERGENCY-POWERED GENERATION FOR ALL ESSENTIAL
ELECTRONICS.
PAM HOOPER, FACILITY ADMINISTRATOR GRETCHEN MARCHESE,
FINANCIAL MGR

Last But Not Least . . . Help Us Get theWord Out!
 See that logo right there?You may not
know it yet, but that logo is a sign of your protection.
Here’s why: Whenever you see that logo, you know the
doctor behind it is certified by the American Board of
Plastic Surgery. Believe it or not, there are doctors
without surgical training who market cosmetic surgery
procedures to the unsuspecting public claiming they are
“board certified,” but it is not clear what board they are
certified in. It’s happening right here in Little Rock and
as long as there is no law against it, it’s buyer beware.
Ask your surgeon if they are board certified in plastic
surgery and then go to www.abplasticsurgery.org to
verify. Also go to www.abms.org for a list of recognized
boards. So this logo helps give you an idea about the
credentials of the doctor you’re considering.The
credentials don’t guarantee a successful outcome, but at
least when you choose an ASPS member surgeon, you can
be sure of these things:
■ √ Has at least six years of surgical training, with 3 years
specifically in plastic surgery.
■ √ Is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
■ √ Operates only in accredited medical facilities.
■ √ Adheres to a strict code of ethics.
■ √ Fulfills continuing education requirements, including patient-
safety techniques.
AMERICAN SOCIETY
OF
PLASTIC SURGEONS
SO NOWYOU KNOWTO LOOK FORTHAT LOGO. IFYOU
CAN’T FIND IT EASILY,THE DOCTOR PROBABLY ISN’T
BOARDCERTIFIED IN PLASTIC SURGERY.
DR. SHEWMAKE HAS BEENA MEMBEROFASPS SINCE
1989.
THIS IS ALLYOU HAVETO REMEMBER,
FOUR LETTERS: ASPS

THAT’S ABOUT IT
We hope that you’ve enjoyed reading the Shewmake Plastic Surgery &
Skin Retreat surgery planner and that it is helpful in your recovery
from surgery. We welcome your suggestions! Shoot us an email at
staff@shewmakeplasticsurgery.com. Please let us know what you
liked and if you have any other suggestions that would be helpful for
future patients to know.
CONTACT US
SHEWMAKE PLASTIC SURGERY & SKIN RETREAT
KRIS B. SHEWMAKE, M.D.
10801 EXECUTIVE CENTER DRIVE, SUITE 101
LITTLE ROCK, AR 72211
PHONE (501) 492-8970 FAX (501) 492-8859
WWW.SHEWMAKEPLASTICSURGERY.COM
FOLLOW US
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM FOR UPCOMING EVENTS AND
THE LATEST TRENDS.
FACEBOOK.COM/SHEWMAKEPLASTICSURGERY
INSTAGRAM.COM/SKINRETREATSPS

Surgery Planner 9/7/16

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