Once you’ve completed your consultation and scheduled your facelift surgery, it’s time to prepare. In addition to specific instructions you’ll receive from Dr. Stein, the following general recommendations will help you feel more confident going into your surgery. If, at any time, you’re unsure about how you can better prepare for your surgery, don’t hesitate to contact Stein Plastic Surgery directly.
Facelift Prep: Six Weeks Before
If you’re a smoker, you should quit immediately and until at least six weeks after your procedure. Smoking can affect your circulation, increase the risk of surgical complications, and inhibit the healing process.
Staying thoroughly hydrated and ensuring your body has healthy nutrients (vitamins and minerals) will contribute to a quick recovery.
Facelift Prep: Two Weeks Before
Dr. Stein may schedule medical tests or lab work at this time to ensure you are healthy enough for surgery. You may be prescribed medication for use prior to your procedure, which should be taken as instructed.
Blood-thinning medications, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements should be avoided from this point forward to reduce the risk of bleeding and bruising.
Facelift Prep: One Week Before
Your last consultation will be scheduled the week before your surgery to review the surgical plan. This is the time to bring up any final questions you may have.
During this week, it’s recommended that you fill any prescriptions, so they are available immediately following your procedure.
Facelift Prep: The Night Before
Try to get a good night’s sleep the night before your procedure. It is crucial that you are well-rested during your facelift surgery.
Alcohol should be avoided the night prior to your procedure. Since anesthesia can only be administered on an empty stomach, it’s important that you don’t eat or drink anything after midnight.
The Day of Your Facelift Surgery
Bring comfortable clothing with zippers or buttons – you’ll want to avoid having to pull anything over your head after surgery. You should have your ride accompany you to the hospital.
Arranging Transportation
Facelifts are typically performed under general anesthesia. The lingering effects of anesthesia will affect your ability to drive yourself home. You should arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from your procedure and stay with you for the first night or two.
Plan for At-Home Recovery
Once you are home, you’ll need at least a week to rest and relax. Other than walking around to promote blood circulation, you should not attempt to perform normal daily activities. When possible, have someone help with everyday activities like cooking and cleaning.
Prior to surgery, you should prepare your recovery area to have:
- Easy access to a bathroom
- Soft foods and water available
- Entertainment for when you’re awake (television, books, or magazines)
It’s important to use the weeks leading up to your procedure to care for your body and reduce stress to help ensure you achieve your best outcome. Stein Plastic Surgery can answer any questions you may have prior to your surgery.
Take the Next Step
Ready to learn more about facelift procedures? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Stein at Stein Plastic Surgery based in Raleigh, NC today! Simply fill out the form on this page or give us a call at (919) 261-7099.
*Individual Results May Vary.