Cosmetic facial surgery procedures such as facelifts, eyelid surgery, and brow lifts require careful preparation to help ensure a safe procedure and smooth recovery. In the days and weeks leading up to surgery, patients may need to adjust certain medications, follow fasting guidelines, and plan for important surgery-day instructions.
Understanding how to prepare for cosmetic facial surgery can help reduce anesthesia-related risks, minimize complications, and ensure your surgical team can perform the procedure safely.
Below, you can watch a short video outlining key preoperative instructions, followed by a step-by-step guide to help you prepare for your facial surgery.
Important Preoperative Instructions Before Cosmetic Facial Surgery
Following your surgeon’s preoperative instructions is an important part of preparing for cosmetic facial surgery. These guidelines are designed to reduce surgical risks, ensure safe anesthesia, and ensure the procedure can be performed without complications.
Before your surgery date, your provider may give specific instructions regarding eating and drinking, medications, and other health considerations. Carefully following these recommendations can help your surgical team provide the safest care possible.
Fasting Before Surgery
Patients undergoing cosmetic facial surgery must follow strict fasting guidelines before anesthesia. If your procedure is scheduled in the morning, you should not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. This includes food, beverages, candy, mints, and chewing gum.
For procedures scheduled later in the day, patients are typically instructed not to eat or drink anything for at least eight hours before surgery.
These fasting guidelines are essential for safe anesthesia and should always be followed unless your surgeon provides different instructions.
Medications and Supplements to Avoid Before Surgery
Certain medications and supplements should be avoided before cosmetic facial surgery because they can increase the risk of bleeding or bruising during the procedure. It is important to inform your surgeon of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are currently taking.
Patients are typically advised to avoid the following for about 10 days before surgery unless instructed otherwise:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (Advil)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Excedrin
- Vitamin E
- Blood thinners
- Diet pills
- Energy drinks or herbal stimulants
Some routinely prescribed medications, such as blood pressure medication, may still be taken with a sip of water unless your doctor advises otherwise. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may also be used for routine headaches if needed.
Preparing for the Day of Cosmetic Facial Surgery
In addition to following preoperative instructions in the days leading up to your procedure, there are several important steps to take on the day of your cosmetic facial surgery. These guidelines help ensure the surgical team can properly prepare the treatment area and perform the procedure safely.
Showering and Skin Preparation
Patients are typically advised to wash their hair and body thoroughly the night before and the morning of surgery. Your surgeon may recommend using an antimicrobial cleanser, such as Hibiclens, to help reduce bacteria on the skin before the procedure.
What Not to Wear on the Day of Surgery
On the day of surgery, avoid applying products that may interfere with surgical preparation. This includes:
- Lotions
- Perfumes
- Hair styling products
Your skin should be clean and free of cosmetic products when you arrive for your procedure.
What to Wear to Your Surgery
Wearing comfortable clothing can make the day of surgery easier. Patients are usually advised to wear:
- Loose-fitting clothing
- Front-button shirts or clothing that can be easily removed
- Flat, comfortable shoes
These garments are easier to put on and take off after surgery.
Contacts, Jewelry, and Nail Preparation
Before arriving for surgery, patients should:
- Avoid wearing contact lenses
- Remove nail polish from both index fingers
- Avoid wearing jewelry and leave valuables at home
These precautions help the surgical team monitor your condition during the procedure and reduce the risk of losing personal items.
Important Safety Considerations
Before undergoing cosmetic facial surgery, there are a few additional precautions to keep in mind to help ensure a safe procedure and recovery.
Arrange for a Responsible Driver
If your procedure involves IV sedation or general anesthesia, you will need a responsible adult to accompany you to the facility and remain available during your surgery. Patients are not permitted to drive themselves home after anesthesia.
Notify Your Surgeon if You Become Ill
If you develop a severe cold, sinus infection, or excessive nasal drainage before your surgery date, contact your surgeon’s office as soon as possible. In some cases, the procedure may need to be rescheduled to ensure your safety.
Optional Supplements for Bruising
Some patients choose to take supplements that may help reduce post-surgical bruising and swelling. It is sometimes recommended to begin taking the tablets two days before surgery and continue for several days afterward. Still, you should always follow your surgeon’s guidance before taking any supplements.
Questions Before Your Procedure
If you have any questions about preparing for your cosmetic facial surgery, medications, or day-of-surgery instructions, contact your provider before your scheduled procedure. Your surgical team can help ensure you understand each step and feel confident going into surgery.
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