Sep 30
Authored by Dr. Ashley Cogar
When patients learn they need surgery, most of the questions I hear are about the procedure itself. What I want them to know is that what happens in the weeks before surgery matters just as much as what happens in the operating room. A little preparation goes a long way toward a smoother recovery.
Focus on nutrition. Healing takes energy. In the weeks leading up to your procedure, aim for regular meals with plenty of protein, fruits, and vegetables. Protein in particular supports tissue repair. If you have diabetes, keeping your blood sugar well controlled is one of the most important things you can do to lower your risk of infection and help incisions heal.
Stop smoking, or at least pause. Nicotine narrows blood vessels and slows the flow of oxygen to healing tissue. Even stopping a few weeks before surgery makes a measurable difference, especially for procedures involving bone or tendon repair. If you need help quitting, please tell us. We would rather have that conversation than see a slower recovery.
Move what you can. Gentle activity before surgery keeps your circulation strong and your mood steady. Unless you have been told otherwise, keep walking and stay active in ways that do not stress the injured area.
Manage sleep and stress. Rest is not a luxury before surgery. Your immune system and your ability to manage discomfort both depend on it. If anxiety is keeping you up, let us know. Understanding exactly what to expect often helps more than anything else.
Plan for the first week. With hand and wrist surgery, everyday tasks like cooking, driving, and buttoning a shirt can be harder than people expect. Set up your home ahead of time, arrange a ride, and fill any prescriptions before your surgery date.
Ask every question. There are no small questions in my office. If something is on your mind, bring it up at your pre-operative visit. My team and I want you to walk in prepared and walk out on the best possible path to recovery.
Surgery is a team effort, and you are the most important member of that team. If you are preparing for a hand, wrist, or elbow procedure and would like to talk through your plan, we have offices in both North and South Oklahoma City and are happy to help.
To schedule an appointment, call us at 405-419-5665.