You've done your research, chosen your surgeon, and made your decision. Now comes the part that separates a smooth, successful experience from a stressful one: preparation.
International patients who prepare thoroughly before traveling for plastic surgery consistently have better recoveries, fewer complications, and higher satisfaction with their results. Dr. Jean Paul Giudicelli Saba, board-certified plastic surgeon in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, gives you the complete pre-operative checklist.
8-12 Weeks Before Surgery
Complete Your Virtual Consultation
Your virtual consultation with Dr. Giudicelli is the foundation of your entire surgical experience. During this appointment, your goals are evaluated, your candidacy is confirmed, your procedure is planned, and your questions are answered. No surgery should be booked without a thorough consultation first.
Stop Smoking
Smoking is one of the most significant risk factors in plastic surgery. Nicotine reduces blood supply to healing tissue, significantly increasing the risk of wound complications, poor scarring, and infection. Stop smoking at least 4-6 weeks before surgery — ideally 8-12 weeks. This includes cigarettes, vaping, nicotine patches, and all nicotine products.
Reach a Stable Weight
For procedures like tummy tuck, liposuction, BBL, and Mommy Makeover, being at or near your target weight before surgery is essential. Significant weight changes after surgery affect your results. Aim to be at a stable weight you can maintain — not a temporary crash diet low.
Review Your Medications
Certain medications and supplements significantly increase bleeding risk during surgery. At least 2-4 weeks before surgery, stop taking:
- Aspirin and NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Blood thinners (unless prescribed for a medical condition — discuss with your physician)
- Vitamin E supplements
- Fish oil and omega-3 supplements
- Herbal supplements including garlic, ginkgo, ginseng, and St. John's Wort
Always inform Dr. Giudicelli of all medications and supplements you are taking — including over-the-counter products.
Schedule Your Pre-Operative Lab Work
Dr. Giudicelli's team will provide a list of required pre-operative lab work and medical clearance tests. These can often be completed with your primary care physician at home before you travel — saving time in Santo Domingo and ensuring you are medically cleared before you arrive.
4-6 Weeks Before Surgery
Book Flexible Travel
Book your outbound flight to arrive in Santo Domingo 2-3 days before your surgery date. For your return flight, book flexible tickets that allow date changes — recovery timelines can vary and you want the freedom to stay longer if needed without financial penalty.
Arrange Your Accommodation
You will need comfortable, accessible accommodation for your recovery stay. A recovery house with nursing support or a well-equipped hotel with elevator access is strongly recommended — especially for the first 3-5 days when mobility is limited. Dr. Giudicelli's team can provide recommendations for trusted recovery accommodations in Santo Domingo.
Arrange Help at Home
Plan for assistance when you return home. For the first 1-2 weeks after returning, you will need help with daily tasks — cooking, driving, childcare, and household responsibilities. Arrange this in advance so you can rest and recover properly without added stress.
Notify Your Employer
Most patients need 2-3 weeks away from work for procedures like tummy tuck, BBL, and Mommy Makeover. Desk work and remote work can often resume sooner. Plan your time off in advance and arrange coverage so you do not feel pressured to return before you are ready.
Start Building Your Recovery Kit
Prepare everything you will need for recovery before you travel. Your recovery kit should include:
- Loose, comfortable clothing — button-front shirts, loose pants, zip-up jackets
- Slip-on shoes that do not require bending to put on
- Prescribed medications (filled before you travel)
- Silicone scar gel (for use after incisions heal)
- BBL pillow (if applicable)
- Compression garments as provided by Dr. Giudicelli's team
- Healthy snacks and hydration supplies for recovery
- Entertainment for rest days — books, shows, podcasts
2-4 Weeks Before Surgery
Optimize Your Nutrition
Your body's ability to heal is directly tied to nutrition. In the weeks before surgery, focus on:
- High-protein diet to support tissue repair and healing
- Plenty of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A and C
- Staying well hydrated
- Reducing processed foods, excess salt, and alcohol
- Iron-rich foods if you tend toward low iron levels
Begin a Light Exercise Routine
If you are not currently active, begin light walking and gentle movement in the weeks before surgery. Being physically active before surgery improves circulation, speeds recovery, and reduces the risk of blood clots post-operatively. Avoid intense exercise in the final week before surgery.
Confirm All Details with Dr. Giudicelli's Team
Confirm your surgery date, pre-operative appointment time, hospital location, and all logistical details with Dr. Giudicelli's team. Ensure you have a direct contact number for WhatsApp communication and know exactly what to do when you arrive in Santo Domingo.
1 Week Before Surgery
Stop Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol increases bleeding risk, interferes with anesthesia, and impairs healing. Stop drinking alcohol at least one week before your procedure.
Stop Taking GLP-1 Medications
If you are taking Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or any GLP-1 medication, these must be discontinued before surgery as directed by your prescribing physician and Dr. Giudicelli. The specific timing depends on your medication and dose.
Prepare Your Home for Your Return
Before you leave, set up your home for recovery:
- Set up a comfortable resting area on the main floor if possible — avoid stairs in early recovery
- Stock the refrigerator with easy-to-prepare, nutritious foods
- Place frequently used items within easy reach — avoid overhead reaching
- Prepare your bed with extra pillows for positioning support
- Have a phone charger accessible from your rest area
Arrange Airport Transportation
Arrange private transportation from the airport in Santo Domingo — do not plan to use public transport or ride-sharing after surgery. Dr. Giudicelli's team can provide recommendations for trusted medical transport services.
24-48 Hours Before Surgery
Follow Pre-Operative Fasting Instructions
You will receive specific fasting instructions from Dr. Giudicelli's team — typically nothing to eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery. Follow these instructions exactly. Eating or drinking before surgery can cause dangerous complications with anesthesia and may result in your surgery being postponed.
Shower with Antibacterial Soap
Shower the night before and the morning of surgery using an antibacterial soap as directed. Do not apply lotions, perfumes, deodorant, or makeup on the day of surgery.
Remove All Jewelry and Nail Polish
Remove all jewelry, including piercings, and take off nail polish and artificial nails before surgery. Metal jewelry can interfere with surgical equipment, and bare nails allow the anesthesia team to monitor your oxygen levels accurately.
What Should You Pack for Plastic Surgery Abroad?
Pack for comfort and easy movement, because your mobility will be limited in the first days after surgery. Choose clothing you can put on without lifting your arms or bending much.
- Loose, zip-up or button-up tops and pants with elastic waistbands
- Slip-on shoes
- Your passport, travel insurance documents, and copies of your medical records
- Any prescription medications you take, with a list of your allergies
- A phone charger and a small pillow for the flight home
- For BBL patients, a BBL pillow for travel and sitting
How Long Should You Plan to Stay?
Plan to arrive in Santo Domingo 2–3 days before surgery and to stay at least 13 days after surgery. Book a flexible return flight, and fly home only once Dr. Giudicelli has examined you and cleared you for travel. The article on how long to stay in the Dominican Republic after plastic surgery explains what happens during your stay.
What Happens After You Return Home?
Your recovery continues after you return home, so arrange help for the first weeks and keep following your post-operative instructions. Continue wearing your compression garment as directed, attend any recommended lymphatic massage sessions, and avoid strenuous activity until you are cleared.
Dr. Giudicelli and his team stay in contact via WhatsApp throughout your recovery. Contact the team, or seek local medical care, right away if you notice shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling or pain in one leg, fever, or an incision that opens or drains.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I start preparing for plastic surgery abroad?
Start preparing 8 to 12 weeks before surgery. That gives you time for a virtual consultation, medical clearance, stopping smoking, and booking flexible travel.
When should I arrive in Santo Domingo before surgery?
Arrive in Santo Domingo 2–3 days before surgery. This allows time for your in-person pre-operative evaluation, lab work, and rest before your procedure.
Can I travel alone for plastic surgery?
You can travel alone, but having a companion during the first week makes recovery safer and more comfortable. If you travel alone, arrange accommodation with support for the first days after surgery.
Planning Your Surgery Trip
Careful preparation makes your surgery safer and your recovery smoother. During your consultation, Dr. Giudicelli will give you a personalized preparation plan for your procedure and your trip.
Schedule your free virtual consultation today. Contact us via WhatsApp or visit drgiudicelli.com.
