If you are undergoing a face lift in the near future, there are a few things you can do to help yourself prepare and help ensure a faster recovery.
While undergoing a face lift is not generally considered a major ordeal, it is still a circumstance which requires proper thought and preparation. By taking the steps to educate and ready yourself for the road ahead,
you will set yourself up for a much faster recovery than if you had simply jumped into the operating room. In this article, we will outline a few tried and true tips to help you get into tip top shape for your face lift.
Step 1 – If you’re a smoker, now’s the time to quit. Quitting smoking and all nicotine-related products will help ensure proper blood flow and aid in a fast recovery. This includes cigarettes, nicotine gum and patches. Quitting six weeks prior to the surgical date is recommended. If you are having doubts, discuss your options regarding smoking cessation products with your physician. These days, there are a variety of products available on the market to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Evaluate your options and choose the one that you feel will work best for you.
Step 2 – Stop taking aspirin in the weeks prior to your surgery. Aspirin acts as a blood thinner, which can work to cause complications during and after the procedure. Be sure to speak with your general physician prior to changing any recommended aspirin regimen.
Step 3 – If you suffer from high blood pressure or hypertension, speak with your general physician in regard to available medications to help you control the condition. Both conditions can results in unnecessary complications during and after the surgery, including heavy bruising during the recovery process.
Step 4 – If you dye your hair, make sure to apply at least one week before your surgical date. Patients will be unable to dye their hair during the initial weeks of recovery.
Step 5 – Just before your surgery, make sure to stock up on any prescriptions and food in order to avoid any unneeded trips outdoors. Treat yourself to some healthy entrees, avoiding fast food for at least a few weeks. Take this opportunity to loose those extra couple pounds you’ve been wanting to get rid of, and head back to work looking like a brand new you.
Step 6 – Set up the couch… you’ll likely be there quite a bit after your face lift. Gather pillows, blankets and your favorite movies to ensure a happy, comfortable you throughout the recovery. Grab a few bags of frozen veggies from your local grocer for healthy snacking and aid for facial swelling. If you must leave the house, make sure you have a new hat and sunglasses to hide the swelling and reduce sun exposure.
Step 7 – Arrange for a close friend or family member to transport you to and from your surgery. Additionally, you should try to secure a special helper who can stay with you during the initial first couple days of recovery to help you out in case of emergency or simple conversation.
Speak with your surgeon to have them outline specific instructions for you prior to your surgical date. Every patient is different, and you will likely be able to add and subtract items from the list provided above.
