What you can do to prepare

Knowing what you can do to help your mind ease its way into your surgery can certainly help you both pre- and post-operatively.  Below is what you can do before surgery to help you put things into perspective.

• ascertain that your surgeon is aware of your wishes
• ascertain all of your shopping is complete
• talk any concerns over with your spouse or family and reassure them why you want the surgery
• compare old photographs and go over either on paper or in your head why you truly want the surgery yourself.
• Go over and tell yourself that during the healing phase you will be:
  o bruised
  o sore
  o swollen
  o asymmetrical
  o tired
  o irritable
  o unsure
  o possibly depressed
• If you realize all of the above beforehand there are no surprises.  Write or print this out pre-operatively because even though you know in your mind NOW that you will feel this way -- your mind changes and plays tricks on you afterwards.  Know this.
• Take a nice bath or hot shower beforehand and wash your hair -- and perhaps light some candles and soak for a bit.  Soaking is therapeutic beforehand.  Even play some relaxing music while in the tub.
• Go get a massage a few days before to help you relax if you wish.
• Do whatever it is that helps you relax
• Talk to your friends and if you want to let them know, but remember if you don't want them to know - it is YOUR prerogative.
• Remember that this doesn't have to be a stressful time, even though it is difficult to trust, stressing and worrying doesn't make anything better once you've committed and you are determined to have your surgery. 

Remember that stress can increase healing time and blood pressure can soar during this time.  Think of your health.  Think of how you will look in the following weeks after surgery!