What you do in the weeks before an operation affects how safely it goes and how well you heal. Much of it is simple, but it has to start early. In this guide New City Clinic gives a practical checklist, from four weeks before to the night before surgery.
Four weeks before: smoking, alcohol and weight
Stop smoking and all nicotine products, including vapes and patches, at least four weeks before and after surgery; nicotine narrows blood vessels and is the most common avoidable cause of wound problems. Cut down alcohol and stop it completely in the final week. Keep your weight stable rather than dieting hard. Eat enough protein, and treat any infection, including dental and skin infections, before you travel.
Medication and medical history
Give your physician a complete list of what you take, including the contraceptive pill, hormone treatment, blood thinners, weight loss injections, herbal products and supplements. Some of these have to be paused before surgery, but never stop a prescribed medicine on your own. Mention previous operations, anaesthetic problems, allergies, clots in you or your family, and any recent illness. Honest answers are part of your safety.
What to pack
Loose clothing that fastens at the front, slip-on shoes, a neck pillow for the flight and for sleeping upright, your regular medication in its packaging, a list of your medicines, phone charger and adapter, and lip balm and wipes. Leave jewellery, nail polish and false nails at home. Bring recent test results and reports if you have them. Garments and support bras are provided where the operation requires them.
The day before and the morning of surgery
You meet your surgeon, the plan is confirmed and marked, and tests and the anaesthetic assessment are done. Ask every question you still have and read the consent form carefully. You will be told when to stop eating and drinking, usually from midnight. Shower, do not apply creams or make-up, and try to sleep. Nerves are normal; tell the team how you feel.
Surgery in Istanbul with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about surgery in Istanbul, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really have to stop smoking?
Yes. For operations in which skin is lifted, such as tummy tuck, facelift and breast lift, surgeons may postpone surgery if you are still smoking, because the risk of poor healing is high.
Should I stop the contraceptive pill?
Only if your physician advises it. The pill slightly raises the risk of clots, so the decision depends on the operation and on you.
Can I have surgery during my period?
Yes. It does not affect the operation, though you can mention it to the nursing team.
Deciding on surgery in Istanbul is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
