Preparing for Excision of Facial AVM - Lessons learned?

I was hoping I could use the group to see if there are any members who have had a facial AVM removed via surgery and ask: what are some things that you wish you had known or that you learned along the way that you could share with me as I prepare for surgery on August 13th. Are there certain questions you had wished you had asked or known beforehand? Must-have items for recovery? Any lessons learned and/or stories you are willing to share as I prepare for my first surgery would be so appreciated!!