Each plastic surgery procedure is different, which means recovery time differs, too. Some procedures need a longer recovery time than others and you may have to follow certain procedures during your recovery, depending on your surgery.

Preparing for your Surgery

We strongly urge all our patients to read through these recommendations when planning your surgery and travel arrangements. Should you have any specific queries please do not hesitate to contact us.

Planning Your Journey

Your itinerary – take note of the following:

You should plan to arrive in Cape Town at least 5 days before your intended surgery. To facilitate adequate recuperation and a comfortable return journey, we recommend you remain in Cape Town for 1-3 weeks after surgery (see below). The suggested duration of your stay should be confirmed with us before making your flight reservations. Here are our suggestions:

  • Eyelids: 10 – 14 days
  • Facelift / Signature procedures: 3 – 4 weeks
  • Labiaplasty: 10 – 14 days

General Pre-operative Instructions:

Ensure you have informed Dr Nerina Wilkinson of:

  • Medical problems (consult your GP or a specialist where indicated)
  • Allergies
  • Medications/supplements/homeopathic treatments

There is a list of medications to avoid at least 2 weeks before surgery. The list will be provided during the consultation with the practice.

A few examples include:

  • All Anti-inflammatories
  • Any blood-thinning medication
  • Homeopathic or herbal remedies
  • GLP1/2/3
  • Recreational Drugs
  • Smoking – please note that 4-6 weeks of abstinence before and after surgery is mandatory.

Informed Consent

At your pre-operative consultation, ensure that all your questions are answered and that you are confident that you understand your procedure, the risks, and the likely post-operative course. The better prepared you are, the easier it will be.

You should be clear on the outcome, duration of recovery, side effects, and risks. If not, ask!

Preparation

Ensure that you have prepared your home and your family to ease your first few days of recovery, i.e. Food, transport, and entertainment. REMEMBER: we do have a more structured post-operative care plan available (accommodation, transfers, nursing, supervision, postoperative treatments, etc); you would, however, need to make arrangements with our highly trained post-operative care team before surgery. You will find more information regarding our highly recommended post-operative care facility details here.

Day Of Your Surgery:

  • After any sedation procedure, you may not drive for 24 hrs – please arrange transfers to and from The Cosmetic Surgery Institute (TCSI)
  • Ensure you are aware of your admission time
  • You will be advised if you need to be nil per mouth before surgery
  • Wash yourself with the anti-bacterial soap provided
  • Avoid applying any product to your face, body & hair
More About

The Recovery Process

Where do I go – Post Surgery Accommodation

Immediately on being discharged from the hospital or clinic, you’ll need to be placed in an environment that is comfortable
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How Do I Recover?

Each procedure requires specific post-operative care and I’ll provide you with all the information pertinent to your procedure/s during your consultations.
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