How to Prepare for Facelift Surgery

As we age, the shape of our faces changes. Facelift surgery, also called a rhytidectomy, can help you look younger by reducing sagging skin and the appearance of folds on the cheeks and jawline.

If you’re interested in facelift surgery, you will need to consult with an experienced surgeon to explain your goals and ensure the treatment is right for you. For those near Sharpsburg, Peachtree City, Newnan, Fayetteville, GA and surrounding areas, the team at Exclusively Faces Cosmetic Surgery and Medispa performs various facelift procedures, including full facelifts, mid-facelifts, and lower and mini facelifts.

Below we’ll look at the instructions most patients can expect to receive in order to prepare for their facelift surgery.

What does a facelift involve?

A facelift is designed to tighten skin and recontour the face. The procedure is not intended to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles, or treat other skin damage caused by sun exposure, aging, or pigmentation issues. If you’re looking to treat the texture of your skin, different procedures are more appropriate.

During a full facelift, your surgeon will pull back flaps on both sides of your face and alter the tissue underneath to recontour your face for a more youthful appearance. They will also remove excess skin. A mid-facelift will focus on lifting the areas specifically around the cheekbones and upper jaw and can be a good treatment for reducing jowls. Jowls and other laxity issues of the chin are treated with a lower facelift. Finally, a mini facelift only requires a small incision around the ears and can produce subtle improvements in the mid to lower face.

How can I prepare for a facelift?

Before a surgeon agrees to perform a facelift, they will examine your face and your health history to make sure it’s the proper treatment. Always share concerns with your doctor. A good practitioner will help you formulate realistic goals.

Before scheduling a facelift, patients should expect to:

• Explain in detail how they would like their faces to look

• Share the details of their health history with their surgeon

• Be honest about all current medications and any habits or dietary issues that may impede surgery and recovery

• Hear about other treatment options, if appropriate

• Discuss the surgical process and its possible complications and side effects

What instructions will I receive before facelift surgery?

Facelift preparation is crucial for achieving the best results. After you’ve received a consultation and agreed on a treatment plan at Exclusively Faces Cosmetic Surgery and Medispa, our team will give you specific instructions on how to get ready for the procedure.

Your facelift preparation instructions may include:

• Getting lab tests or a medical evaluation to ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery

• Adjusting medications with your prescribing doctor

• Quitting smoking

• Limiting salt intake

• Avoiding alcohol

• Applying skin care products to the face

• Avoiding certain medications such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, or any herbal supplements that may put you at risk for excessive bleeding or bruising

• Arranging for someone to drive you home from your surgery and help around the house in the days after the procedure while you rest and recover

Surgery of any kind carries risk, so it’s crucial to follow all facelift preparation instructions to give yourself a chance at the best possible outcome.

Preparing for a facelift in Sharpsburg, GA

The team at Exclusively Faces Cosmetic Surgery and Medispa in Sharpsburg, GA is experienced in performing all types of facelifts and less invasive skin tightening and anti-aging treatments.

Schedule a consultation with our team to get started if you’re starting to think about getting a facelift or have questions about whether it’s the right treatment for you.