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Top 5 Tips to Prepare for Facelift Surgery

3 Minute Read: 

A facelift can tighten your skin and reduce your wrinkles to give you a younger-looking face. These benefits make this facial rejuvenation procedure popular among many age demographics. 

If you are preparing for facelift surgery, there are steps you can take to prepare for your procedure. 

Young, smiling woman with facelift rejuvenation lines drawn on her face.

These five steps will help you have a safe, straightforward surgery and a smooth recovery.

1. Quit Smoking

Patients are asked to quit smoking at least six months to a year before and after their surgery; however, individual recommendations may vary. This is actually recommended for all types of surgeries, not just facelifts. 

People who smoke leading up to their surgery have a higher risk of surgery-related complications, including heart attacks, stroke, shock, and death. Additionally, smoking decreases blood flow in the body, making it more challenging for surgical wounds to close. Lastly, smoking weakens the immune system, increasing the patient’s risk of catching a postoperative infection.

Give yourself the best chance of a safe recovery and quit smoking before and after your procedure.

2. Stop Taking Aspirin or Advil

Before your surgery, you will need to stop taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin or Advil®. These types of medications can increase the risk of excessive bleeding during surgery and can result in post-surgical complications.

In fact, it’s best to speak with your plastic surgeon about all the medications you’re taking. This includes prescription medications and all over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. They may advise you to stop some if there’s a chance they can interfere with the procedure.

3. Prepare Your Home

It’s essential you have the opportunity to rest after your surgery. You can make sure your home is prepared for you to relax in by completing chores and other strenuous tasks in advance. Consider having meals already pre-made, grocery shopping done, and laundry complete, so your recovery is stress-free.

4. Prepare to Keep Your Head Elevated

While you are recovering, you must keep your head elevated, even as you rest. This will help to reduce postoperative swelling. Prepare in advance by arranging a place where you can relax and sleep with extra pillows set up for elevation.

5. Wash Your Hair & Face Before Surgery

Wash your hair and face very thoroughly the night before your surgery with the shampoo and soap you are accustomed to using.

You will have some restrictions on washing your face and hair after your facelift. Dr. Alexander and his team will explain when it is safe and appropriate to wash your face and hair and how to properly wash your face while healing to ensure that your incisions remain protected and clean.

What Does a Facelift Look Like?

If you are considering a facelift, you are likely anxious to see how the surgery has helped our previous patients. To see Dr. Alexander’s work, visit our facelift before and after photo gallery.

Before and after image showing the results of a facelift performed in Las Vegas, NV.

Book Your Facelift With Dr. Alexander

If you are ready for a face that matches your youthful inner glow, book a consultation with Dr. Alexander & Co. today. During your initial visit, we will examine you to ensure a facelift is your best option and answer any questions and concerns you may have.

Dr. Alexander and Co. is one of Las Vegas’ top plastic surgery facilities offering world-class results. You will receive care from a board-certified doctor who has been practicing in Vegas for over 20 years.

Book today by calling 702-625-4233 or filling out this form.

 

Dr. Alexander's Office

A top Plastic Surgeon, Dr. George Alexander, serving more happy patients in Las Vegas, the United States and Internationally.

Dr. Alexander & Co

1725 Village Center Circle, Suite 150
Las Vegas, Nevada USA | (702) 242-6776

"Dr. Alexander and his staff are all accommodating and friendly. Dr. Alexander takes time to really address your concerns and questions. He is an awesome doctor. We highly recommend him to anyone in need of cosmetic surgery.” five star rating

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