As with any major surgical procedure, it helps to know what to expect to help you better prepare both physically and mentally.

Facelifts generally don’t take longer than 4 hours but if you require extensive surgery, your surgeon may opt to book two separate sessions. Some surgeons will work on one side of the face at a time while others will alternate throughout the surgery. Every patient and surgeon is different.

If you’re considering a facelift, this is what you need to know to prepare for your procedure.

The consultation

During your consultation, you will discuss your facelift goals with your surgeon, showing him which areas you want to enhance. Your surgeon will also help you develop realistic expectations and ensure that you thoroughly understand the procedure from start to finish. By doing so, patients aren’t left disappointed after their surgeries. It’s also a good idea to discuss your surgeon’s qualifications and experience so that you’re completely comfortable once you do decide to go ahead with the surgery.

Two weeks before your facelift

When discussing your face lift surgery details at Academy Face and Body, your surgeon will ask you to stop smoking at least 2 weeks before your surgery. This is because smoking affects the blood flow and could hamper your healing process.

Patients should also stay away from any medications that could lead to excessive bleeding such as blood thinners, Aspirin and Vitamin E. Your surgeon may even prescribe certain medications before your surgery to help you achieve better results.

It’s important to always follow your surgeon’s exact instructions if you want your surgery to be a success.

One day before your facelift

Wash your hair thoroughly the day before your facelift so that you reduce your risk of infection. You also shouldn’t drink any alcohol the day before your surgery. A good night’s rest is also incredibly important so get to bed early and get at least 8 hours of sleep. Your surgeon may also provide you with additional instructions that you’ll need to follow.

The day of your facelift

On the day of your surgery, you will be given local or general anaesthetic. Since the effects of the anaesthesia will last for a good few hours after your surgery, it’s important that you arrange for someone to collect you and care for you for the first day or two after your surgery.

After your surgery, you will receive post-surgery instructions from your surgeon, which need to be followed to the letter if you want to see the best possible results.

Facelift recovery

Even though you will only experience some mild discomfort after your surgery, you still shouldn’t drive yourself home. Your head will be bandaged after your surgery and you will very likely still be experiencing the effects of the anaesthesia.

Plan to rest as much as possible for the first week and if possible, arrange for someone to help you with day-to-day activities such as cooking and cleaning until you have had a chance to heal.