- Inform yourself about outcomes and risks of surgery.
- Get recommended medical, dental, and other checks to ensure safety.
- Exercise muscles before surgery, whether upper or lower body.
- Understand and follow discharge instructions when you leave the hospital.
- Communicate with your surgeon and primary doctor often, especially if you have questions.
- Avoid smoking and excess alcohol use during recovery.
- Maintain good hygiene and reasonable body weight.
- Participate in scheduling, planning, discharge, and related processes.
- Select a surgeon in whom you have confidence and trust.The decision to have elective surgery should be made after careful thought and deliberation.