Having youthful skin is what a lot of people desire. Perhaps you're really worried about aging or you just need a confidence boost, a facelift might just be the solution you're looking for.
Fresh face, wrinkle-free, glowing-skin are benefits that come with the procedure, taking you from drab to glam. So if you're all set to make that dream a reality by indulging in a facelift, ignore the common facelift myths outlined by double board certified Richard Zoumalan M.D., F.A.C.S, and get started! You're on your way to having younger looking skin.
However, as with procedures that have to do with surgery, there are important things to note, to better prepare you before D-day so as to ensure an optimal outcome from the process. While every patient and every surgery is different, the following are pretty basic for everyone of every age, skin type or medical status.
Here are some of the big ones:
Get Your Mind Ready
First, before embarking on a facelift, it's very important to appreciate yourself beyond any additional adjustments that need to be made on your face. Have the right expectations and prepare your mind to accept your new look, depending on the extent of your surgery. During this period, it's wise to get the right motivation and energy around you to ensure that you're in the perfect emotional state.
In addition, follow all the instructions given and recommended by your surgeon. Don't ignore any instructions, no matter how insignificant it may seem. Your instructions may include taking a hot bath or shower in the morning before the surgery.
After the surgery, you won't be able to shower for a day or two, depending on your body type and how fast you heal. Also remember not to add any beauty products like scrubs or cream to your face or hair because this could interfere with your surgery and would be wiped off regardless.
You may also want to visit your salon a few days before your surgery to wash your hair or try a new hairstyle since you may not be able to do so for some weeks after your procedure. The additional benefit is that it would also add to the wow effect of your post surgery look!
Plan Ahead to Be Comfortable
Although the procedure has little or no pain if done properly by proven professionals, you may still need painkillers, even it is for one night. By planning ahead, you would have gotten ready to be comfortable in the coming days and to get the rest you need to get better.
Talk to your surgeon about what is going to be the best recovery process for you. Stop taking anything that increases bleeding or swelling. It won't hurt to talk with your doctor too, especially if you're on daily medications and ask whether any of the drugs you are taking could increase the side-effects of post procedure. Now is the time to come clean and tell your doctor everything.
Also, try and ensure your "recovery area" is comfortable. It may be your bed, your couch or a hotel room away from home. Wherever it is, make sure you have plenty of pillows and blankets and loose fitted clothes that you won't have to pull over your head. Button downs should do. Snacks, water bottles and your medication should be set up too.
Smoking and drinking, No-No!
This is basic. The nicotine and other chemicals in the cigarettes can restrict blood flow in the body and this makes it difficult for the body to heal properly. It is advisable to give up smoking a month or few weeks before your surgery as to give your body a very clear window for healing. Talk to your surgeon about your smoking habit and follow every instruction given to the letter.
It is also advisable not to drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before the procedure and days after the procedure because healing quickly is key.
Choose Your Surgeon wisely
All the above means nothing if you botch this step.
Choose your surgeon wisely. Everything rests on the shoulders of this one person. Don't settle for less than the best for your procedure. You may find cheap surgeons with ridiculous discounts, but remember, things are cheap or free for a reason. They may use outdated techniques, substandard equipment or just cut corners, even if they have friendly staff and beautiful premises.
Instead, choose your surgeon based on experience, qualifications and reviews. Schedule an appointment to meet face to face for a consultation and to learn more about how they work and the projection of your result. Ask all the questions you want and you can get the conviction you need as to whether they are the right surgeon for the job.