February 05, 2020 | 3 minute read
Thorough preparation is a vital element in facelift cosmetic surgery, and it significantly contributes to the final result.
At the time of the pre-op consultation, the surgeon will assess whether the patient is an appropriate candidate for facelift. In case there are any underlying conditions that may pose a risk to the safety of the patient during or after the procedure, the surgeon will address such concerns before proceeding with a facelift.
Patients should be upfront and honest during the pre-op consultation, and should disclose any history of smoking and drinking to the surgeon. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Marco Gonzalez provides facelift surgery to patients in El Paso, TX, and surrounding locations.
Two Weeks before the Surgery
In case the patient smokes, they will need to discontinue smoking at least two weeks ahead of the procedure. Smoking affects blood circulation, which can adversely impact the healing process. If the patient uses aspirin or other blood thinning meds, such as ibuprofen, and Vitamin E, the surgeon will ask to stop using these drugs or supplements during this period.
Sometimes the surgeon may alter the schedule of the patient’s prescription medicines in discussion with their general physician. In addition, the patient may also be prescribed certain new meds before the facelift plastic surgery.
At the time of the initial consultation process, the patient should openly ask the surgeon questions and clarify their concerns and doubts. They should proceed with the surgery only upon being completely convinced and satisfied about their decision.
A Day before the Surgery
A day prior to the facelift procedure, the patient should wash their hair properly to minimize the risk of infection. They should avoid the consumption of alcohol 24 hours before the surgery. Certain patients may be prescribed a mild anti-anxiety pill the night prior to the surgery to allow them to sleep well and be full rested prior to the surgery.
The Day of Surgery
Facelift surgery is usually undertaken on an outpatient basis, but in rare cases, the surgeon may recommend an overnight stay at the surgical venue for the patient. Even if the patient undergoes the procedure as an outpatient, they should understand that the effects of anesthesia may last for a few hours beyond the time necessary to perform the facelift.
For this reason, they should ask someone in advance to drive them back home after their facelift. Before the patient leaves for home, the surgeon will give them a detailed list of post-operative facelift recovery guidelines. The patient must follow these guidelines in a diligent manner.
Aftercare
If the patient requires additional assistance at home in the initial few days after the surgery, they should arrange for a professional caregiver, medical attendant, or nurse in advance.
Working professionals should apply for leave ahead of the procedures as they may need to remain at home for at least one week or more. With meticulous preparation on all facets of the surgery, the patient can focus fully on the procedure and recovery and accomplish the outcome they have been yearning for.
Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Marco Gonzalez receives patients from El Paso, TX, and nearby areas for facelift.
For more information on Plastic Surgery (cirugía plástica) and Non-Surgical Medical Spa procedures and treatments, please contact the offices of Board Certified Plastic Surgeon (cirujano plástico), Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez (Dr. G) by clicking here or calling 915-600-2639.
Serving patients in El Paso Texas, Las Cruces New Mexico, Ciudad Juárez Mexico and surrounding areas.
