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As you age, the skin starts to lose its elasticity. You will notice that you eventually lose the volume of your facial tissues. If you’re bothered by the signs of aging, such as deep wrinkles, jowls, and loose skin on your neck, a facelift can be an excellent solution. This type of cosmetic surgery can repair wrinkled and sagging skin to restore a more natural, youthful appearance. Here are some steps you can take to get the best results from your facelift surgery.

Ways to Get Your Skin in Shape Before the Surgery

The key to a good facelift outcome is healthy skin. Schedule a consultation and a thorough medical evaluation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon at least a couple of months prior. You must plan and take care of your body in the weeks leading up to your surgery.

• Six Weeks Prior. See that you quit smoking at least six weeks before your operation, as it can affect your circulation and impact your healing process. Keeping yourself properly hydrated and eating a healthy, balanced diet is also vital. This way, you can make sure that your body has all the required vitamins and minerals for a smooth recovery. The use of sunblock and medical-grade skincare products are highly encouraged. Sunburns and incisions on your face just don’t mix.

• Two Weeks Prior. A couple of weeks before your facelift, you need to stop taking aspirin or any blood-thinning medicine. Food and herbal supplements have to be reviewed. Any medication that may have a negative impact on bleeding or healing has to be discontinued. You may also be asked to visit your doctor for some laboratory work during this time. They need to assess whether you’re fit and healthy enough for the surgery.

• One Week Prior. Expect that you will have a final consultation with your plastic surgeon a week before your surgery. Ask any questions you may have and ensure that you fill your pain and antibiotic prescriptions. It’s also highly advisable to prepare your home ahead of time. Arranging for a recline or hospital bed and a caretaker will help. You will not be permitted to drive yourself home after your facelift. So, start talking to someone you trust, like a partner, family member, or a friend, to see if they are available to drive you home and keep you company for the first few days following your surgery. Also, avoid drinking alcohol at least five days prior to your facelift, as alcohol thins your blood. You don’t want to experience excessive bleeding during the operation.

• The Night Prior. Make sure to relax. If you feel too anxious, your doctor may prescribe a relaxing medicine ahead of time. Also, your surgeon will likely make incisions along your hairline. So, wash your hair the night before the operation to avoid the risk of infection. Besides, you will only be able to wash your hair again several days after your facelift. Finally, anesthesia will only be administered if you have an empty stomach. You mustn’t eat or drink after midnight the evening before your facelift.

Aftercare essentials are of equal importance. Learn more about post-operative instructions and recovery tips from our team of experts in East Bay Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery. Call our clinic now in Oakland, California, to make an appointment.