Your Packing Guide for Facial Plastic Surgery Travel

Traveling from out of town for your plastic surgery procedure? Here's what to pack and what to leave at home.

1. Comfortable, Loose Clothing

• Zip-up or Button-up Tops: To avoid disrupting your incisions, avoid clothing that needs to be pulled over your head. Choose zip-up or button-up tops instead.
• Loose-Fitting Bottoms: Sweatpants, joggers, or loose trousers with an elastic waistband.
• A Cozy Robe: If your hotel doesn't have one, consider bringing your own cozy robe for lounging around.
• Slip-On Shoes: Since you will have to avoid bending over during recovery, opt for slip-on shoes.

2. Recovery Essentials

• Travel Pillow: A travel pillow will keep your head elevated on the journey home, which helps with swelling.
• Medications and supplements: Bring all prescribed medications from your surgeon, along with any over-the-counter pain relievers they recommend. Make sure to clear any medications, vitamins and supplements with your surgeon first.
• Ice packs or gel packs: Reusable gel packs are great for managing swelling and bruising.
• Gentle skincare products: You will need a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, a gentle moisturizer, and lip balm. We have an excellent line of surgery-specific skincare for purchase at our office (which means one less thing for you to pack!).

3. Entertainment For Downtime

• Books, magazines, or a tablet: Reading is a great way to pass the time.
• Earbuds: Listen to podcasts, audiobooks, or music.

4. Logistical Items

• Travel documents: Your passport/ID, flight information (if necessary), and hotel reservation details.
• Medical records: A physical or digital copy of your consultation notes, surgical plan, and emergency contact information.
• Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat: Essential for protecting your sensitive skin from the sun post-surgery.

What To Leave At Home

• Tight-fitting clothes, necklaces, and earrings: Anything that can irritate or put pressure on your surgical sites.
• Makeup: Your surgeon will advise you when it's safe to wear makeup again, but you won't need it in the immediate aftermath.
• Harsh Skincare Products: Avoid anything with retinoids, acids, or strong fragrances.
• Heavy Luggage: Pack light so you can manage your bags easily.

By packing smart and preparing for your recovery, you can ensure the process is as comfortable and successful as possible. See our full Out-Of-Town Patients page for more info on how to plan for your journey.