New Delhi, May 8 -- It's a scene that's very common that by the time surgery is recommended, most people are already navigating a fair amount: discomfort, uncertainty, the logistics of health insurance, medical opinions, and time off work. What often gets missed or in the process is that the time before the procedure can significantly influence what happens after. In many cases, especially when the surgery is planned and not emergency-driven, the lead-up to it is an opportunity to prepare - not just by signing consent forms or completing paperwork, but in more active and useful ways that can improve recovery, lower complication risk, and make rehabilitation smoother. Here are some pointers that can be kept in mind for a smooth pre- and po...