A facelift is a popular surgical procedure that aims to rejuvenate the lower third of the face. This surgery can tighten loose skin, reduce wrinkles, and eliminate other signs of ageing to refresh and revitalise the facial aesthetic. A qualified physician – such as our London Consultant Plastic Surgeon, Mr William Townley – can tailor the procedure to suit each patient’s individual needs.
Because a facelift is a major surgery, it’s crucial that you prepare for the procedure both physically and mentally. To do so, Mr Townley urges you to keep these important tips in mind:
- Follow your pre-operative instructions. Before you undergo the surgery, Mr Townley will provide you with directions to prepare for a safe procedure. Be sure to follow these instructions carefully and reach out with any questions you have about your care.
- Don’t smoke. Not only can smoking cause accelerated signs of ageing, but it can interfere with proper healing and increase your risk of complications.* As such, we recommend you refrain from smoking in the weeks before and after facelift surgery.
- Secure a ride home. Because facelift surgery is nearly always performed under general anaesthesia, you won’t be able to drive yourself home afterward. This means it’s typically wise to have a family member or friend help you.
- Make plans for recovery. Following a facelift, most patients will need to recover for about two weeks. During this time, it’s essential that you get sufficient rest, so it’s often wise to arrange for childcare and other assistance prior to the procedure.
After your facelift is complete, Mr Townley will recommend you to come in for follow-up visits wherein he can monitor your progress. Further, he encourages you to look after yourself in the years following the surgery to maintain the results of your facelift. Doing so generally includes developing a good daily skin care regimen; using broad-spectrum sunscreens year-round; watching your weight and exercising regularly; and eating an antioxidant-rich diet full of fresh vegetables and fruits.
Finally, for optimal facelift effects, we advise you to beware of gimmickry. In other words, treatments such as “lasers that do everything,” “no-incision weekend techniques,” and “puppet facelifts” tend to be over-promised and under-delivered. As with any cosmetic procedure, your safest option is to seek the care of a trusted physician.
Questions about preparing for facelift surgery? Schedule your consultation with Mr Townley today.
Medical References*
University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire
Editor’s note: The original version of this blog was posted on 4 July 2015.
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