Skin integrity is essential for the operative site. It is therefore important to maintain good hygiene by keeping your skin clean and dry, especially in the days leading up to surgery. Skin breakdown can potentially cause your surgery to be delayed.
Showering before surgery
It’s very important to shower the day before surgery – following the recommendations of your health care team. Remember to wash from chin to toes, paying close attention to abdominal skin folds and the pelvic area.
On the day of surgery, it is recommended that you shower in the morning.
- Refrain from using moisturisers, lotions or makeup
- Remove any nail polish
- Take off any jewellery
- You may wear dentures, but you will need to remove them just prior to surgery
- You may brush your teeth and gargle, but it is important that you do not swallow anything