Rhytidectomy, commonly known as facelift surgery, is a major procedure that will usually take between two to four hours. The best outcomes for this procedure can be achieved when the patient has prepared well for the surgery. Dr. Gary Motykie MD is a board certified plastic surgeon providing rhytidectomy and other procedures to patients in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and surrounding locations.
Moderate and Stable Weight
Prior to the facelift surgery, the patient should start working on optimizing body weight. By the time the surgery date is approaching, the weight should be moderate and stabilized. This effort will ensure that at the time of surgery there is less weight on the facial skin flaps. The facial skin will be loose following the weight loss, and the surgeon will be able to pull it more efficiently. However, crash diet or other extreme weight loss methods should be avoided.
Low Salt Diet
The patient should preferably choose a low salt diet for several weeks or months prior to facelift surgery. Processed foods, snacks, and other foods with high salt content can contribute to water retention, which can cause swelling in the face. Swelling will stretch the tissue beyond normal and reduce the tightening when the surgical procedure is performed. Dr. Gary Motykie MD receives patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and nearby areas.
No Smoking, Aspirin, Vitamin E
The patient must stop smoking at least two weeks prior to facelift surgery. Smoking alters blood flow, which can impede the healing process. Aspirin and other blood thinners and Vitamin E must be avoided for a few weeks before surgery.
If the patient is taking any prescription drugs, their schedule may have to be altered in consultation with the physician. The plastic surgeon will advise these guidelines at the time of initial consultation, and the patient must adhere to them diligently for a safe surgery.
A Day before Facelift
The patient should wash the hair thoroughly one day prior to facelift surgery. This will reduce the risk of infection during surgery. Alcohol consumption should be avoided at least one day before the surgery. The patient should ideally soak up a suitable night’s sleep before surgery so that they are well-rested during the procedure. Eating and drinking should be avoided for at least eight hours before the surgery. However, prior to this, the patient should stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
Advance Arrangements
A facelift is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. But the patient will not be in a position to drive home on their own due to lingering anesthesia effects and initial discomfort from the surgery. Therefore, they should make advance arrangements for someone to drive them back home after the surgery.
The patient should preferably have some family member or friend to assist at home for about 48 hours after the surgery. Alternatively, they may consider hiring a professional help. If the patient is working, they should apply for a leave from work in advance for at least one week for post-operative recovery.
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