Facelift Surgery
A facelift is a major cosmetic surgery procedure that should be preceded by a proper preparation. A well-prepared patient will usually feel more relaxed and confident prior to the surgery and achieve more satisfying outcomes in the end. Preparation will start right from the day the surgeon has approved a patient as a candidate for facelift.
During the initial consultation for facelift, the surgeon will provide detailed instructions to the patient for preparation. The patient should diligently follow the instructions for their own sake. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bram Kaufman provides facelift to patients in Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and surrounding communities and neighborhoods in this part of the state.
Preparatory Instructions
If the patient has a habit of smoking, they will be required to quit smoking for a specified time period before the facelift procedure commences. Cigarette smoke contains nicotine, which can interfere with the oxygen flow in the blood, increasing the risk of surgery as well as slowing the healing process.
The surgeon will also require the patient to refrain from taking certain types of medications, vitamins and herbal supplements for a few days before the surgery. Some prescription drugs of the patient may have to be rescheduled in consultation with the prescribing doctor.
The patient should focus on a balanced and nutritious diet as far as possible before the surgery, and increase the intake of lean proteins in the diet. They may also be encouraged to improve fitness levels and follow a regular exercise regimen prior to the surgery.
Health Assessment
Prior to the facelift plastic surgery, the surgeon will evaluate the patient’s facial and neck anatomy, check the degree of skin laxity, skin type, muscle weakness, presence of fat pockets, and the strength of the facial bone structure. They will also review the patient’s medical records, and encourage the patient to share their personal health and cosmetic goals.
The patient should be prepared to disclose all relevant information about their current and past health issues, and any specific lifestyle habits such as smoking, alcohol or drugs. This will allow the surgeon to prepare in advance for any potential risks and adjust the surgical plan to improve the risk profile.
Other Preparatory Steps
The patient should ideally complete any pressing household or office assignments well before the surgery in order to have a stress-free procedure and recovery. Working individuals should apply for at least one week’s leave at the workplace, and another week of less strenuous activity at work.
They should arrange in advance for someone who can drive them back home after the facelift surgery, and preferably stay over for the first one or two nights to assist the patient. Alternatively, the patient may arrange for help for a few days, particularly if they have little kids to look after.
Basic essential items for recovery such as pain medications, gauze bandage, ice packs, loose garments that open in the front and extra pillows should be arranged in advance. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Kaufman receives patients from Beachwood, Pepper Pike, Cleveland, OH, and nearby areas for facelift surgery.
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.