Who doesn’t want to look their best? One way you can improve your appearance is through facial plastic surgery. Facial plastic surgery is a procedure that alters the form and function of the human face by surgical operation, typically involving an incision with recovery time. The most common types of facial plastic surgery in Scarsdale, New York, are rhinoplasty (nose job), facelift, eyelid lift, otoplasty (ear pinning), liposuction, and chin augmentation or reduction. It’s essential to be aware that a Scarsdale facial plastic surgery expert will take time to optimize the proper treatment for you. But, most importantly, understand how best to prepare beforehand ahead of these procedures.
Boost Your Immune System
In reality, no one is ever 100 percent ready for surgery. But there are certain things you can do to be as prepared as possible with less risk of complication. Before your procedure, you must boost your immune system. Your surgeon will recommend nutritional supplements and vitamins or an appropriate diet that you should follow up on before surgery.
Be Well-Hydrated
You should be well-hydrated before your facial plastic surgery. A good rule of thumb is to drink eight glasses of water a day for at least three days before your procedure. Drinking plenty of water will keep you hydrated leading up to the big day, which can reduce postoperative complications by helping to flush out the body’s toxins. This will hopefully reduce your risk of contracting an infection or illness.
Be Tobacco-Free
Tobacco has been linked to more than seven types of cancer, not just lung cancer. One study found that smokers had a greater chance of developing oral cancers than nonsmokers, particularly on the tongue and in the mouth. Since tobacco can lead to an increased risk of infection, it’s best to quit at least two weeks before the surgery.
Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications
Your surgeon will likely ask you to stop taking your blood-thinning medications in the days leading to surgery. Many of these drugs increase the risk of excessive bleeding and bruising, interfering with recovery after facial plastic surgery. Mild blood thinners, such as aspirin, are often not restricted before surgery, but more serious ones should be discontinued two weeks before the procedure.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are another class of blood thinners that should be discontinued for at least one week before facial plastic surgery. Just under 25 percent of patients who undergo eyelid surgery develop increased bleeding, bruising, or other complications after taking NSAIDs. If you’re on a daily aspirin regimen for cardiovascular problems, talk with your doctor about switching to another form of medication before surgery.
Refrain from Alcohol Use
Alcohol is a bit trickier because it can be consumed in moderation. You should avoid alcohol one week before surgery because the effects of alcohol on your body’s circulation may increase your risk of excessive blood loss during surgery. Your surgeon may also ask you to refrain from drinking for 72 hours after surgery when you wake up to avoid the chance that you will choke on excess saliva.
If you’re considering facial plastic surgery, it’s essential to know what you can do to prepare beforehand. By following your surgeon’s pre-operative instructions, you can minimize the risk of complications and ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.
