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How to Prepare for Your Facelift

After diligently searching for the right surgeon and booking your facelift procedure, excitement, or even anxiety, might be high. Whatever you’re feeling, rest assured that it’s normal, and instead, shift your focus on how best to prepare for your facelift.

 

Think of your facelift surgery like any other surgery. You want to prepare your body, mind and surroundings to be healthy and well-equipped for the recovery period. Preparation isn’t solely about relaxation, though that can be an important part. You always want to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle to support your body, and it can lead to a smoother recovery and better results.

 

Here are our top tips on how to prepare for your facelift surgery:

Maintain your exercise routine and aim for an active, healthy lifestyle

Start making your body as healthy as possible as soon as you can. Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to help your body heal. Exercise regularly, get plenty of sleep, and stay hydrated. Even small daily changes can significantly impact your overall health.

Consider adjusting your medications or supplements

Discuss any prescription medications with your surgeon during your initial consultation. You might need to stop or adjust certain medications temporarily to reduce anaesthesia and surgery risks. Some over-the-counter medications and supplements might also need to be avoided.

Avoid smoking and tobacco

Looking for the perfect motivation to quit smoking or vaping? If you smoke, use a vape, chewing tobacco, or wear a cessation patch, you’ll need to stop before and after your surgery. Nicotine restricts blood flow, which can hinder healing and cause complications.

Don’t dip on the skincare

Some people might pause their skincare in the lead up to their surgery, but it’s important to take good care of your skin before surgery and protect it afterward to enjoy your results longer. Wear plenty of SPF and avoid sunburn before your facelift. Keep your skin healthy and hydrated with moisturisers and serums, and avoid products with harsh ingredients.

Start booking your time off

Expect swelling and bruising for at least the first week after your facelift. It may take up to two weeks for the swelling to subside and for you to feel more like yourself. Plan ahead to take time off work and clear your schedule of any engagements.

Get your personal arrangements in order

Your facelift will be under general anaesthesia, so you’ll need someone to drive you home after surgery. Ensure a friend, family member, or trusted caretaker is available to assist you around the house for a few days post-operation. Extra points if they can drop some soup off to you!

Make yourself a cosy, comfy haven for recovery

Since you’ll recover at home, set up a dedicated recovery space for rest and relaxation. Keep essentials like pillows, blankets, water, healthy snacks, tissues, medications, your phone, laptop, and entertainment sources within reach.

Get on top of your admin and errands ahead of the surgery

Complete your to-do list before surgery to focus on recovery. You might want to:

  • Stock your pantry with groceries and maybe even sign up for a meal delivery service
  • Prepare and freeze meals
  • Sign up for a meal delivery service
  • Try to get medications in advance and file your prescriptions
  • Ensure you have comfortable clothing that doesn’t need to be pulled over your head
  • Arrange your child and petcare if you have little ones to look after

The final steps

The night before surgery, stop eating and drinking at midnight since anaesthesia requires an empty stomach. On the morning of the surgery, take a shower and wash your hair, as you won’t be able to shower for a while post-surgery. Avoid applying skincare products, hair styling products, body lotions, or makeup straight after surgery.


Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing that zips or buttons in the front. Leave jewellery and valuables at home. If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses on the day of surgery.

Give yourself some compassion and mental support!

Preparing your body and environment is vital, but so is mental preparation. Understand the steps ahead, including potential challenges, but be confident in your choice of surgeon and your decision to have surgery. If you reflect on your reasons for surgery and set realistic expectations for the outcome, you can stay confident and excited throughout the process.

If you have any questions or concerns about your facelift surgery, feel free to contact us sooner rather than later. We want you to feel at ease and completely confident in your decision.

To begin your facelift journey with Dr. Umed, call us or fill out our enquiry form. Dr. Umed and his team are committed to providing personalised outcomes and exceptional care.

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