Meticulous preparation is an important part of a facelift cosmetic surgery procedure, and significantly contributes to the final outcome. During the initial consultation, the surgeon will evaluate whether the patient is a suitable candidate for facelift. If there are any underlying conditions that may pose a risk to the success of the procedure later, the surgeon will address such concerns first.
Patients should be frank and upfront during the pre-operative consultations, and should speak about any history of smoking or alcohol accurately. Dr. Bram Kaufman is a board certified plastic surgeon providing facelift and various other procedures to patients in Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and surrounding locations.
Two Weeks Prior to Surgery
If the patient is a smoker, they will be asked to stop smoking at least two weeks in advance. Smoking impacts the blood flow, which can adversely affect the healing process. If the patient has been using aspirin or other blood thinners such as ibuprofen and Vitamin E, the surgeon will ask them to refrain from using these medications during this period.
In some cases, the surgeon may discuss with the patient’s general physician about adjusting any schedule of prescription medications. The patient may also be prescribed certain new medications prior to the facelift cosmetic surgery. During the pre-op consultation process, the patient should feel free to ask questions and clear all their doubts and concerns. They should go ahead with the surgery only after they are fully convinced and satisfied about their own decision.
A Day before the Surgery
A day before the facelift procedure, the patient should wash hair thoroughly to minimize infection risks. Alcohol should be avoided for 24 hours prior to the surgery. Some patients may be given a mild anti-anxiety pill the night before the surgery so that they can sleep well and be fully rested before the procedure.
Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Kaufman may provide additional instructions to his patients in Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and nearby areas, according to their specific needs.
The Day of Surgery
Facelift surgery is generally performed on an outpatient basis, but in exceptional situations, the surgeon may recommend an overnight stay for the patient at the surgical facility. Even in case of outpatient procedures, the patient should be aware that the effects of anesthesia may last for a few hours beyond the time required to perform the facelift.
Therefore, they should arrange for someone in advance who can drive them back home after the procedure. Before the patient leaves, the surgeon will provide a detailed list of post-op facelift recovery instructions. The patient must follow these instructions diligently.
Aftercare
If the patient wants additional help at home in the first few days following the surgery, they should arrange for a professional help or a medical attendant or nurse in advance. Working people should apply for leave well in advance because they may be required to stay home for at least one week or more. With thorough preparation on all aspects of the surgery, the patient can focus completely on the procedure and recovery and achieve best outcomes.
To learn more about cosmetic treatment and procedures or to schedule a consultation by Cleveland Ohio area plastic surgeon, Dr. Bram Kaufman, please contact us at 1-216-778-2245 or click here.