Preparing your body

Prehabilitation

Physiotherapy before surgery can improve movement, control swelling and build strength. This is particularly important before ACL reconstruction and can also help patients preparing for joint replacement.

Smoking and vaping

Nicotine increases anaesthetic risk and makes skin, tendon and bone healing less reliable. It also raises the risk of infection and repair failure. Stop smoking and vaping as early as possible before surgery and remain nicotine-free during recovery. For some procedures, surgery may need to be delayed if smoking creates an unacceptable risk.

General health

Maintain good nutrition, manage existing health conditions and report infections, wounds or significant illness before the operation.