Preparing for Facial Cosmetic Surgery Can Improve Your Results
When you undergo any type of procedure at our Paoli, PA practice, Dr. Hove wants you to enjoy the safest and most successful treatment possible. Therefore, he will make sure that you are completely informed about the process, and he will create an entirely customized treatment plan. Further, he will help you take the proper steps to prepare for surgery.
Specific medications, dietary changes, and other modifications can make the healing process easier and faster. He will explain these changes at your initial consultation, when he will also explain what you can expect from treatment. When you follow his instructions closely, your facial cosmetic surgery will have negligible risks.
A Thorough Consultation Will Yield Optimal Results
Your pre-surgical consultation is one of the most important steps before your procedure. At this time, Dr. Hove will determine your candidacy for surgery by evaluating your medical history. He will also assess your skin quality since some remaining elasticity is necessary for optimal results. Furthermore, he will ask about your aesthetic goals so he can help you select the right type of treatment.
Dr. Hove offers a full range of cosmetic procedures, including brow lifts, eyelid surgery, neck lifts, and more. There are also multiple types of facelifts to choose from. In some cases, he may suggest combining procedures, since this can provide more sweeping and dramatic results. In any case, he will carefully plan your procedure, determining where to place incisions and how much tissue to remove, among other considerations.
Medication before Your Surgery
Prior to your procedure, Dr. Hove may prescribe certain medications to promote faster healing. Vitamin supplements can strengthen your body’s immune system and reduce the risk of infection. At the same time, there are also several medications that you will need to avoid. Ibuprofen and vitamin E can have a blood-thinning effect, so you will need to eliminate these. Of course, you should also stop taking prescription blood thinners with the approval of your doctor. If you cannot safely do so, you are not a candidate for facial cosmetic surgery.
Dietary Changes
Even before treatment, you may need to alter your diet to improve healing afterwards. It is vital that you consume enough vitamins in fresh fruits and vegetables. Additionally, protein and calcium are necessary for healing, so you should increase your intake of lean meats and dairy products. You should also avoid foods that are high in sodium. Excess salt will cause your body to retain moisture, which will increase swelling after surgery. Of course, you should continue eating this way after surgery, especially during the initial phase of your recovery.
Prepping for Recovery
After any type of procedure, you will need to set aside at least a few weeks for recovery. Therefore, you should do everything you can now to make this process easier. For example, be sure to arrange for a ride home, and, if possible, have someone stay with you for a few days. A loved one can help you cook, change bandages, and do other routine tasks that you may initially find difficult.
You should also stock up on everything you need for the recovery process. These items may include:
- Compression bandages
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories
- Ice packs
- Healthy snacks
- Button-down tops that you do not have to pull over your head
- Plenty of movies, books, magazines and other low-key entertainment
Learn More about How to Prepare for Surgery
Facial plastic surgery may make you a bit apprehensive. However, with proper preparation, it should be a relatively easy, low-stress process. Contact the Hove Center for Facial Plastic Surgery to learn more about how you can get ready for your treatment.
