Walking into the operating room with fear that your procedure will not go well is one of the worst things you can do during the time of your operation. We should have a healthy, positive mindset before and after, and be hopeful that your procedure will go exactly as planned, smooth sailing. 

Of course, any recovery process is gruesome, but we will talk about that after our procedure. 

By knowing what to expect and getting the right post-surgery care, you will be able to go into any surgery with a stress-free mindset. 

However, before we start preparing you mentally for the surgery; make sure you have asked yourself the following questions before even scheduling;

• Is this the best option?

• Are there any other alternatives?

• Do the results outweigh the risks?

• Is it worth it? 

If your answer is yes, now we can schedule the surgery. Choose a date that works best for you, if possible, and make sure you inform your work and or school you will be at the hospital and in recovery for sure about of days so they can block you out of the schedule, and so they are aware. Ensure you are in good hands and hire the best-experienced surgeon and facility specializing in performing similar operations.

When approaching the surgery date, I follow two sets of lists; the physical list (the list the hospital says you must follow) and the mental list, the plan that I follow. 

The physical list looks a little something like this, but make sure to follow the specific plan.

• Remove all Nail Polish

• Shave and Shower the Night Before

• No lotions or Perfumes

• Do not smoke two weeks before the procedure (if this applies to you)

Now we have my list or the mental list. Take deep breaths and follow these steps with me.

• Make sure to see all of your close friends. 

• Separate yourself from work and distress the day before.

• Make sure you have a great last meal, at whatever time the doctor says.

• Ask questions. If you have any concerns, your doctor will provide you with answers that should make you feel comfortable walking into the operation room. 

• Move around as much as possible the day before, go for a run, take a stroll, sit outside, etc. 

I always follow one important rule: Be sure to always building up your muscles, to make you stronger for the procedure. Every leg surgery, I make sure to work out my legs, so my strength is still there when I am not using them. Besides, I need to make sure my arms and core are strong enough to lift me while crutching; it is too difficult for me to move around. Therefore, make sure to stay healthy, on the inside and out!

I have been prepping for this surgery for months, lifting weights almost every day, and my arms feel stronger than ever. I made sure to hang out with my friends and loved ones before the big day. The night before my surgery, my mother and I went for a nice last meal, and ran up the Rocky steps for good luck. All of my questions and concerns were answered, which allowed me to feel confident going in.

Preparing the proper way for surgery can help your body feel a lot better after, in hopes of a quicker recovery. 

Be positive because everything is going to be okay! I promise. Post-surgery is a different process, but we will talk about that after my procedure. As for pre-surgery, make sure you focus on yourself, check-in with yourself, and make sure you are okay, mentally and physically.