If you’ve decided to have a facelift, you will need to prepare on a few different levels. Proper preparation is the key to achieving your desired results.
Consultation
The first step will be meeting with your chosen plastic surgeon. During this meeting, your surgeon will cover a few important topics.
Medical History
Your doctor will review your current and past medical conditions, as well as any medications you are taking. Be prepared to answer specific questions about medications or supplements you are taking or have taken recently, including exact dosage amount.
Physical Exam
For you to achieve your best results, your doctor will closely examine your facial skin and structure. This is imperative so that your surgeon can use the most appropriate techniques for your desired results.
Expectations
Your surgeon will want to know your desired results so that he or she can best deliver what you’re looking for. Discuss what you are hoping for after the procedure.
Pre-Surgery Preparation
Medication Directions
Your surgeon will provide instructions about what types of medication you will need to stop taking and when. For up to two weeks before surgery, it is important to avoid:
- Aspirin
- Anti-inflammatories/NSAIDs
- Herbal supplements
- Diet pills
In addition to stopping certain medications, your doctor may have you start certain medications prior to the surgery. For example, for those prone to high blood pressure, a blood pressure medication may be prescribed.
Smoking
For best results, it is important to stop smoking for two weeks before surgery.
Eating/Drinking
Don’t eat anything after midnight on the night before your facelift, and avoid alcohol the night before surgery.
Washing face/hair
Take a bath or shower and wash your face and hair the night before the surgery.
Make arrangements for help during recovery
Have somebody readily available to assist you in:
- Driving home from surgery
- Picking up any prescribed painkillers or medication
- Home care for 1-2 days after surgery