Pre-surgery:
Stub out the ciggies. Smokers have a much higher risk of lung problems like pneumonia. Nicotine increases blood pressure and places additional stress on your ticker. Avoid alcohol, get plenty of shut-eye and eat a balanced diet.

Talk about it:
Discuss allergies and the use of medication with your doctor. Some over-the-counter drugs (such as laxatives) and dietary supplements might cause complications from surgery and/or interfere with anaesthesia or other drugs needed during proceedings. Also, substances affecting blood pressure may prolong bleeding after the operation.

Ask about the doctor's track record and make sure that you understand the expected outcome, the risks and costs of surgery.

Get Smart:
Studies show the more you know about the surgery and the more realistic your post-operative expectations, the less stress and pain you're likely to experience. Know how long everything will take and the deal with post-op drips, catheters and other curious devices.

Rally a support crew:
Ensure there's enough help both before and after surgery. Have the mail collected, someone to drive you to and from hospital, feed the dog and feed you