5 Things to Do Before Your Deep Plane Facelift
Posted June 24, 2024 in Facelift
If you’ve started your plastic surgery journey with the deep plane facelift, it can be exciting to imagine your results. The deep plane facelift is one of the best ways to achieve a more youthful appearance and enjoy a dramatic improvement in your facial features. However, preparation is key when it comes to any facial plastic surgery or cosmetic procedure. If you haven’t already, schedule a private consultation with Dr. David Gilpin, Nashville’s premier deep plane facelift expert and a double board-certified plastic surgeon. He’ll review the surgical and recovery process at length during an appointment, and you can get answers to your questions. In the meantime, here are five things you can expect to do in order to prepare for your deep plane facelift procedure.
Take Care of Your Body
Ahead of any surgical procedure, being in good health is essential. Even if you haven’t scheduled your surgery or even your deep plane facelift consultation, start incorporating fibrous and nutrient-rich foods into your diet, along with high-quality protein and healthy fats. Keep yourself hydrated, too, and make time to move your body daily.
If you smoke, you should stop immediately. Smoking can impede the healing process, meaning your results may not turn out as intended. Stopping smoking can also improve the quality and condition of your skin, helping improve your facial appearance even before you get to your surgery date.
Finally, take good care of your skin, especially in the face and neck region. Make sure to apply moisturizer daily and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF30. This is a good habit to establish now since it will be essential to preventing visible scars after surgery.
Prepare for Recovery
Your recovery process directly correlates to the quality of your facelift procedure results. During your recovery, you’ll need to rest and limit your activity level. Take some time to prepare an area of your home where you can feel comfortable – and where you won’t be bothered while resting. Arrange for a comfortable bed or couch and ensure you have plenty of pillows to prop yourself on to keep your head elevated. Make sure to also stock up on healthy snacks and entertainment. Please insure that you are in a pet free area. Your recovery area should be ready to go by the time you return home from surgery so you can immediately rest.
Other aspects of recovery include things like social downtime and taking time off work. Dr. Gilpin can give you the best idea of how long you’ll need to recover, but in general, most patients require a recovery period of about seven to ten days weeks. Keep your schedule light during this time and plan on avoiding exercising if you do it regularly. Arrange for child or pet care where applicable, too.
Complete Lab Testing
Blood work helps ensure a safe and risk-averse facelift surgery – it can also help Dr. Gilpin screen for any medical conditions that might cause potential complications. Especially if you’re undergoing general anesthesia, you’ll need to complete some testing in the weeks prior. After your consultation our patient care coordinator will give you a list of labs to be completed prior to your surgery. Blood work helps Dr. Gilpin’s surgical team be aware of any factors that might impact your surgery well in advance. You’ll be given instructions on the specific tests needed and where to send the results. Your primary care physician can typically help with this, but we can recommend other options – especially if you’re an out-of-town patient.
If your blood work comes back and Dr. Gilpin has any concerns about the safety of your deep plane facelift surgery, you’ll discuss your options.
Follow Pre-Surgical Instructions
Pre-surgical preparation is key for facial plastic surgery. You’ll be given a complete list of steps to follow, including some of the above points after your consultation. Make special note of the things to do in the days preceding your surgery, like getting your hair dyed, fasting, arriving at the scheduled time, leaving behind jewelry, and wearing loose-fitting clothing. Not following these steps can delay your surgery or even postpone it. We prefer that you ask any and all questions about these instructions to ensure a smooth process.
Other things to prepare for include arranging for transportation. Ideally, you’ll arrange for a responsible adult (such as a close friend or loved one) to bring you to and from surgery. If you’re from out of town, our team can recommend private transportation and accommodations. This caretaker should stay with you for the first few days to assist with aftercare and get you to and from your follow-up appointments. If you’re in need of a professional caretaker, we can help you locate the right service.
Fill Prescription Medications
Dr. Gilpin will give you a prescription for medications to help your recovery. These might include anti-inflammatory medication, pain medication, and even antibiotics. These are essential to a smooth recovery so don’t hesitate to ask questions during your consultation. A few days ahead of your deep plane facelift procedure, fill these prescriptions and make sure they’re ready to take according to instructions. Don’t wait until you’re on your way home from surgery! And make sure to review instructions with your caretaker ahead of time.
Deep Plane Facelift Surgery in Nashville, TN
The deep plane facelift can transform your facial structure and produce results beyond traditional facelifts. To learn more, contact Gilpin Facial Plastics + Aesthetics by calling our Nashville office or filling out our online form.
Return to OverviewHAVE A QUESTION?
Are you looking to enhance your appearance and boost your confidence? Complete this form to learn more or schedule a consultation with one of our experts at our Nashville, TN office. From facial plastic surgery to lasers & aesthetics, we offer a variety of services that help you put your best face forward.
Ask a Question