Facelift surgery provides profound improvements in one’s appearance, defying signs of aging that alter the shape and balance of the features. The procedure corrects the appearance of jowls, drooping cheeks, a wilting jawline, and nasolabial folds, restoring a refreshed, vital countenance with lasting results. In this blog, Dr. Daniel Liebertz, a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon, explores the best ways to make the most of this transformative gold-standard anti-aging solution.
1. Focus on Mental Preparation
As a first step before your facelift, speak with your friends and family members about your plans to undergo surgery and begin delegating tasks that they can assist you with. You will need their help, both physically and emotionally, to complete a successful facelift journey. If you don’t have the support you need at home, consider seeking assistance from local community groups and forums. Hiring professional help is also a valid option.
To gear up for your procedure, follow these important tips:
- Gather all the facts about your surgery
- Involve others in your preparation process
- Keep a positive mindset
- Stay clear on your goals and why you are choosing the procedure
- Maintain realistic expectations for your results based on your doctor consultations
- Set up your home environment, stocking up on pillows, towels, snacks, books, movies, ice packs, prescriptions, and water
2. Schedule Assistance in Advance
After surgery, you will need help with a variety of tasks, including basic household chores, pet care, and childcare, as you will not be permitted to lift more than 10 lbs. Schedule a helper ahead of time, whether it is a friend, family member, or hired professional. Don’t hesitate to lean on others during your healing process, even if it feels challenging.
Here are a few other preparation tips to consider:
- Ask for a couple of weeks off from work ahead of time to support your healing
- Make sure you have someone to drive you to and from your procedure
- Make sure you have someone who can stay with you for the first 24-48 hours
- Fill your prescriptions ahead of time
3. Adhere to a Healthy Lifestyle
In the weeks leading up to your facelift, you must safeguard your health, as this can help prevent complications. If you smoke, vape, or use nicotine products, you will need to quit at least six weeks before and after surgery. Nicotine can lead to constricted blood vessels and increase certain risks, such as blood clotting or skin necrosis. As you heal, you need your circulatory system to deliver vital oxygen and nutrients to the body, optimizing your recovery.
Alcohol can also impact your healing process, so it is best to stop drinking at least 48-72 hours before surgery. Alcoholic beverages thin the blood, which can slow down healing. They can also impact the effect of anesthesia on your body.
4. Choose Your Meals Wisely
Prior to surgery, sticking to a healthy diet is key. You will need plenty of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals for a successful healing journey. Choose lean proteins, whole grains, healthy fats, fruits, nuts, legumes, seeds, and vegetables. Steer clear of processed foods, fried foods, candy, ice cream, chips, and similar items.
Doing meal prep before your facelift is an excellent way to maximize your peace of mind. You can prepare and then freeze meals in advance, which allows you to avoid cooking during recovery. You can also sign up for a meal delivery service if you prefer to stay out of the kitchen entirely.
As you plan your meals, also consider preparing easy-to-consume snacks, like applesauce, smoothies, soups, and oatmeal, as your jaw may be slightly sore after surgery. Also, make sure to stock up on fluids and water, as staying well-hydrated during recovery is mandatory.
5. Choose the Right Clothing
The last preoperative tip concerns the clothing you wear to your surgery. Make sure you choose comfortable garments with a loose fit. Your shirt should button down the front, as it will be uncomfortable and inconvenient to pull clothing over your head after surgery. Make sure to have at least 5 or 6 shirts that open in the front so you can change clothes during your first week of healing without disturbing your face or head.
What Should I Avoid Before a Facelift?
So far, we have discussed the important things you can do to prepare for a facelift. However, there are also several things you should NOT do before surgery. While you will receive detailed instructions from your surgeon both before and after your procedure, here are a few points to keep in mind:
- Avoid certain medications that can increase bleeding, including aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, fish oils, and other supplements, for at least 2 weeks before surgery. Your doctor will provide a complete list of medications to avoid before your big day.
- Don’t lose or gain weight, as this can put stress on your body. The time before surgery is not the right moment to go on a diet or start binging. Follow a balanced meal plan and make sure you have sufficient fuel to power your recovery. Avoid high-sodium foods for at least a week before your procedure.
- Refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight on the night prior to your facelift.
- Don’t wear any jewelry, perfumes, lotions, creams, deodorants, or cosmetics on the day of your surgery.
What Is the Fastest Way to Heal After a Facelift?
Now that you have a better understanding of the preparation process before your facelift, here are some postoperative guidelines that can help you recover with greater peace of mind. Remember that recovery takes time and patience and should never be rushed. You’ve invested a lot in your appearance, so allow all the rest and recuperation needed to preserve your results.
- Don’t Overexert Yourself – After surgery, the number one rule is to take it easy. Don’t engage in any activity that might raise your blood pressure, as this can enhance the risk of bleeding and/or bruising. Avoid bending and lifting heavy objects for at least 2-3 weeks after surgery. Wait for your surgeon’s green light before resuming your workouts.
- Avoid Straining Your Incisions – Make sure you don’t put any pressure or tension on your incisions for the first few weeks of healing, as this can influence how well your scars heal. When you rest or lie down, keep your head elevated at a 30-degree angle to reduce swelling.
- Stay Out of the Sun – After a facelift, your skin will be especially sensitive to the sun. Too much exposure to harmful UV rays can darken your incisions and lead to wrinkles. Make sure you wear an SPF of at least 50 or higher and a sunhat for 6-12 months after your facelift.
- Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions Carefully – Your surgeon’s instructions can help provide clarity on each stage of the healing process. If there’s anything you don’t understand, make sure to ask questions. Keep the phone number of your surgical team nearby, and don’t hesitate to call if you suspect any complications or are experiencing anything out of the ordinary.
Choosing the Best Provider for Your Facelift
Selecting the right provider for facelift surgery requires that you assess a range of factors, from on-paper credentials like board certification and education to patient testimonials, before-and-after photos, and in-person rapport.
During your consultation, you should have a list of questions prepared that help you better evaluate if working with your surgeon is the right fit. During your initial visit, your surgeon will:
- Address your concerns about the surgery
- Conduct a thorough physical and medical evaluation
- Go over your current medications
- Make sure your expectations are realistic
- Discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure
- Explain the costs associated with a facelift
A good plastic surgeon will empower you with the knowledge and information you need to make the best decisions for your care without pressuring you or upselling you in any way. They will be transparent and honest in all communication and provide you with a supportive and compassionate approach that makes you feel safe moving forward.
Have Questions About Facelift Surgery? Contact Us Today for Answers!
Dr. Daniel Liebertz is an accomplished, fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon who believes a facelift should produce natural, elegant results that make patients look just like themselves, only more vibrant, energized, and youthful. He invites you to book a private consultation at his office today to learn more about the benefits of this game-changing rejuvenation procedure and how it can help you feel more confident both socially and professionally. Call today to get started!
