How to Prepare for a Facelift Surgery​​​​​​​

Also known as a rhytidectomy, a facelift is a surgical procedure that aims to create a more youthful appearance in your facial area. This cosmetic procedure may reduce the number of loose skin folds on certain areas of your face and neck brought about by aging. Are you considering having a facelift soon? Let’s talk about how you should prepare yourself for this monumental change.

 

Be Attentive During Consultation

Before the procedure, your cosmetic surgeon will start by knowing about your medical history. Prepare to answer questions about your previous plastic surgeries, smoking, medical conditions, alcohol use, and drug use. Your surgeon may request recent medical records and will also subject you to a physical exam. If there are health concerns about your capacity to undergo facelift surgery, your surgeon will order a consultation with the corresponding specialist.
 

Make a list of the medications you take regularly, including their dosages. Your list should include dietary supplements, over-the-counter drugs, herbal medications, and prescription drugs.

 

Undergo Facial Examination

Make yourself ready for a photo session. Your cosmetic surgeon will be taking photographs of your bare face from various angles. Expect that some of your facial features will have close-ups. The series of photographs will help your surgeon comprehend how the procedure could possibly alter your appearance. These shots will also aid your surgeon in comprehending what the facelift won’t be able to correct, like facial asymmetry or fine lines.

 

Follow Medication Instructions

After reviewing your list of medications, your surgeon will give you instructions on what medications you should stop taking and when to do so. If you’re on blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs, you would have to stop taking them at least a couple of weeks before your surgery.

 

Eliminate Smoking

When you undergo a facelift, your skin is lifted off your underlying tissues, decreasing the supply of blood to your dermal tissues. Nicotine constricts your blood vessels and decreases the blood supply to various parts of your body, including your skin. If you smoke, you should stop smoking or stop using any product that releases nicotine at least a few weeks before your facelift procedure. Also, remember to avoid smoking for at least a week after your surgery. Doing so can help prevent severe complications after the procedure.

Anticipate Recovery

Prepare for your recovery by asking someone to drive you home after the surgery if it is an outpatient procedure.
 

Make sure you create a Zen home environment. This will help eliminate stress and promote a relaxing mood when you get home.
 

Ask someone to be with you for at least a day after the surgery to help you move or eat and to make sure you are stable.

 

A facelift is a cosmetic surgery that could change your life. At Jason K. Potter, MD, DDS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, we can help you prepare for it and go through it as well. Please see us at our clinic in Dallas, Texas. You can also set an appointment with us by dialing 214-892-2474 today.