The patient can achieve optimal facelift surgery outcomes by preparing for the procedure in advance. Facelift surgery preparation commences from the moment the plastic surgeon establishes a patient as a candidate for facelift surgery and gives them the go-ahead for the procedure.
The patient should follow the surgeon’s pre-op instructions in a committed manner for a safe and predictable procedure. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jacob Bloom provides facelift surgery to patients in Chicago, IL, and other suburbs and neighborhoods in this region of the Midwest.
Temporary Restrictions
The patient will need to discontinue tobacco use for a specific duration pre and post facelift surgery. Nicotine hinders proper blood flow leading to heightened surgical risks and slow healing.
In case the patient takes blood thinners such as aspirin or NSAIDs or specific herbal supplements and vitamin E, they may need to stop using these for some time. The surgeon may also alter the schedule of prescription medications in consultation with the physician.
Practical Arrangements
Working professionals should plan for one to two weeks of leave from their workplace to recover from the procedure. Non-working patients will also need to postpone any social engagements for at least a week or two.
The patient should enlist a responsible person to drive them home after the surgery and arrange for aftercare for the initial few days of the recovery period, if necessary.
The patient should ideally complete any pressing home or work-related tasks beforehand to enjoy a relaxed recovery phase. The can also create a recovery kit at home containing the following items:
- Prescription medications and antibiotics
- OTC pain meds
- Bandages
- Ice packs
- Loose fitting, front-open clothes
- Extra pillows to keep the head elevated
The Day prior to the Surgery
The patient should wash their hair thoroughly on the day of the facelift plastic surgery to minimize the risk of infection and avoid consuming alcohol for a minimum of 48 hours before the surgery. Furthermore, they should take proper rest and get a good night’s sleep on the night prior to the procedure.
The Day of Surgery
Patients with diabetes should have their vital parameters assessed on the morning of the facelift surgery. The surgeon may put the patient on an antibiotic regimen before the procedure.
The patient and their attendant should plan for a full day as the surgery may take around two hours with additional hours of observation in the recovery area. The surgeon’s staff will offer the patient and their attendant detailed post-operative recovery guidelines before they leave for home.
Advance Arrangement for Aftercare
Patients, especially those with small children, may consider arranging aftercare for the initial few days of the recovery period. Assistance with daily household tasks in the first few days can ensure a comfortable recovery process.
Moreover, the patient should complete any pressing tasks before the surgery to enjoy a relaxed recovery period. Reliable cosmetic surgeon Dr. Jacob Bloom receives patients from Chicago, IL, and nearby areas for facelift.