How to Prepare for Facelift Surgery to Expedite Healing
November 30th, 2012 Miguel A. Delgado Jr, MD
Before and After Facelift Surgery
The pro-active rhytidectomy (face lift) patient can speed up the healing process by following a few before and after surgery recommendations.
Decide if you are at your goal weight or close to it. You do not need to lose weight prior to surgery if you are at a weight you can comfortably maintain. It is not a good idea to try to lose a significant amount of weight after surgery as you may end up with loose skin on your neck and jowls.
It is mandatory to stop smoking 2 to 4 weeks prior to surgery. Studies show that smoking increases inflammation which increases the risk of infection, cardiac arrest, heart attack and stroke. Smokers also usually suffer with a higher level of pain. You must wait 2 to 4 weeks after surgery to resume smoking. If you have managed to quit for 8 weeks, one of the best things you can do for your health and skin is never start smoking again.
If you color your hair, try to do that prior to face lift surgery or you will need to wait 4 weeks after surgery.
Eat healthy foods, lots of fruits, vegetables, fiber and protein. Drink lots of fresh water. Dr. Delgado encourages his patients to take a high quality multivitamin, both before and after surgery. Dr. Delgado has found Vitamedica to be a superior vitamin supplement that does not contain vitamin E, which must be avoided due to its blood thinning qualities.
Many Marin County patients begin a good skin care regime before surgery and continue it for life. To maintain their rejuvenated new face, they get products and maintenance skin care from the esthetician at cosmetic plastic surgery specialist, Dr. Miguel Delgado’s office at 165 Rowland Way Suite 300 Novato, CA, by calling (415) 898-4161 for an appointment.
