5 Tips to Help You Prepare For Facial Plastic Surgery
Preparing for surgery is essential to the success of a procedure. It can help you get better results, reduce post-operative pain and bruising, and decrease recovery time.
The key is to be sure you have all the information and support you need. Here are five tips to help you prepare for your cosmetic surgery.
1. Schedule Your Consultation
A consultation with a plastic surgeon is your chance to get answers to all of your questions about the procedure you want and how it will affect you. It’s also your chance to find a surgeon you can trust and whose aesthetic judgment aligns with yours.
Choosing the right facial plastic surgeon takes time, patience and research. Start by asking your surgeon if they are board certified and check their credentials online.
Look for a doctor who is constantly seeking education and trying new techniques to give you the best results possible.
You should ask for examples of innovative techniques they’ve used and conferences they’ve attended to learn about the latest procedures. You should also look for a surgeon with before and after photos showing the type of results you can expect to achieve.
2. Schedule Your Pre-Operative Visit
As you prepare for surgery, a pre-operative visit with your surgeon or a patient coordinator is a critical step. This appointment typically takes place 3-7 days before your procedure and is your opportunity to review surgical details and ask questions.
You’ll receive instructions for your pre-operative care at this appointment as well. It’s important that you follow these instructions closely to ensure a successful surgery.
Depending on the medical problems you have, your surgeon may also require additional tests to verify your health before you schedule your surgery. These tests are designed to reduce the risks of your surgery by detecting or addressing potential complications.
3. Make a List of Questions
Creating a list of questions to ask the surgeon will help you feel more prepared and ensure that you get all of the information you need. Additionally, you will be able to jot down any additional questions as they come to mind.
You should also be sure to request before-and-after photos of the surgeon’s previous work. This will give you a good idea of their aesthetic and how they can achieve your desired results.
It’s important to choose a plastic surgeon who uses innovative techniques and stays up-to-date with recent advances in this field. Whether you’re considering a facelift, neck lift, or other procedure, a facial plastic surgeon who is continually seeking education will give you the best possible outcome.
4. Schedule Your Surgeon’s Visit
After your consultation and if you’ve decided that surgery is right for you, your surgeon will schedule a date for your procedure. This is a crucial step in the surgery authorization process and one that can take up to two weeks.
In that time, you will meet with a nurse or doctor and may have blood tests and other important imaging done. Your surgeon will discuss the medications you’ll need to take before and after your surgery.
You should avoid aspirin and NSAIDs (e.g., Advil, Entrophen, ASA, 222s, Naprosyn, Vioxx) for at least three weeks before and after your surgery to minimize bleeding and bruising. You can also take acetaminophen, such as Tylenol, for pain as needed.
5. Schedule Your Post-Operative Visit
One of the most important steps in the plastic surgery process is scheduling your post-operative visit. The goal of this visit is to review your recovery and address any questions or concerns that you have.
Your surgeon will provide you with instructions for home care and recovery. This includes when and how much to walk. It is also recommended that you avoid activities that may cause blood clots, such as hot tubs and sports.
It is also important to have someone available to drive you home after your procedure. This person should be a friend or family member who is capable of caring for you.
