Dr. Sally Carty, fellow of the American College of Surgeons, associate professor of surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, and chief, section of endocrine surgery at UPMC Presbyterian, lists things patients can do to help ensure successful surgery:

• Stop smoking beforehand.

• Shower and wash your hair the day before; it cuts down on bacterial skin flora.

• Pay attention to your nutrition before your surgery. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables and protein. They put you in positive nitrogen balance so you're able to heal better.

• When the doctor gives you educational materials, read them. For example, it may say stop taking aspirin a week before surgery -- that step helps prevent excessive bleeding.

• Bring all your medication bottles with you so your doctor can see the dose on each. It's a good way to avoid medication mistakes.