What to Ask Your Doctor Before a Facelift

Do you ever feel like your skincare or in-office procedures just aren’t delivering anymore? Is that oh-so-promising night cream really tightening your jawline? Are you dealing with filler fatigue? Does your lower face look and feel like its falling? 

Chances are, you’re growing disenchanted with your current protocols and it may be time to explore a real solution. 

Before you opt for a surgical procedure such as a facelift, you need answers and meticulous research is necessary. 

Question #1: What Type of Certification Do You Have?

Ask your perspective surgeon if he or she is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This certification means the surgeon:

• Graduated from an accredited medical school
• Completed 6+ years of additional surgical training
• Successfully finished a 3+ year plastic surgery residency
• Stays current with medical developments by completing continuing education

Question #2: Am I a Good Candidate for a Facelift?

You might think that you’re a good candidate for a facelift, but some conditions may mean you have to wait. If you’re a healthy non-smoker with wrinkles or sagging skin, you’re probably a good candidate. In some cases, body weight, sun damage, and lack of skin elasticity may reduce your chances of a good outcome. Your current state of health is also paramount so be certain to disclose 

Question #3: Where Can I See Your Work?

Any respected board-certified plastic surgeon should have a solid portfolio of before and after photos, so you can examine their work to see if you like their technique. Look on your perspective surgeon’s website for their gallery images. If there are no images, or if the lighting is dramatically different in the before and after photos, you may want to consider a different specialist. A good surgeon will be happy to share patient outcomes that demonstrate their expertise and artistry. 

Question #4: Do You Have Testimonials?

Reviews and testimonials can help you gauge your surgeon’s skills as well as how they conduct consultations and handle post-op recovery treatment. These honest accounts should be plentiful if a surgeon is reputable. Look for testimonials on the facility’s website and on internet sites like RealSelf.com. You may also want to ask to speak with former patients about their experience. 

Question #5: How Long Does a Facelift Last?

In most cases, a facelift typically lasts about 10-15 years … but you have to do your part, too. 

• Rule #1 – Learn to Love Sunscreen. Tanning damages your skin, and UV rays make skin sag and wrinkle faster. Apply sunscreen daily and reapply every few hours if you’re outside, exercising, or sweating.
• Rule #2 – Develop a Solid Skincare Routine. Ask your surgeon for recommendations about medical-grade, science backed skincare as well as ingredients. Choose serums with antioxidants to combat free radical damage and looks for products that have undergone clinical trials as there is real data involved.
• Rule #3 – Make Healthier Dietary Choices – Your skin is your body’s largest organ, so choose foods that support your overall health and ditch or lessen sugar and alcohol because they can undermine your efforts.

Question #6: Where Is the Surgery Performed?

Surgeons are as unique as patients, so don’t assume your procedure will be done in a hospital. Most facelifts are performed in private surgical suites in the same location as your consultation, but sometimes surgeons perform facelifts in an outpatient surgical facility or a local hospital. 

Question #7: What Should I Do Before and After Surgery to Get the Best Results?

Solid results and smart lifestyle choices go hand in hand, so limit your alcohol intake, don’t smoke, and take good care of your skin. 

Your doctor will diligently review all protocols with you for pre- and post-surgery. At least one week prior to your facelift expect the following:

• Stop using exfoliating products, like glycolic acid or facial scrubs, as well as retinol (over-the-counter and prescription varieties). These products can increase irritation, so ask your surgeon when it is safe to add them back into your routine.
• Stop taking ibuprofen or aspirin to avoid unnecessary bleeding and complications. After your facelift, follow your surgeon’s guidance to treat pain appropriately and optimize healing.

Question #8: Do I Need Any Tests Before I Can Have a Facelift?

Yes. Your surgeon will want to make sure it is safe for you to have a procedure, so you’ll have a complete medical evaluation in advance. This includes discussing your medical history along with reviewing all the medications and supplements that you take. You’ll also need to have a physical, an EKG, chest X-ray, and a few blood tests. These preliminary tests help ensure that you’re healthy enough to undergo the procedure without complications.

Question #9: What Are Your Pre- and Post-Healing Protocols?

Recovering from surgery means being kind to your body and patient with the process. Rest is essential, so plan to limit your activity and avoid anything strenuous in the first two weeks. Doctors often recommend supplements such as arnica and bromelain pre- and post-surgery that are said to help with the healing process. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy can also help accelerate healing and may be suggested. Here are a few other protocols that will make the process more comfortable:

• Take your pain medication as prescribed.
• Sleep in an elevated position to limit swelling.
• Use ice packs to reduce swelling.
• Don’t bend down or lift anything heavy for two weeks.
• Closely follow all your surgeon’s post-op instructions.

And Here is One Popular Question to Avoid: How Many Facelifts Do You Do Yearly?

Volume may be a good indicator of a surgeon’s popularity, but it certainly isn’t a testament to the results you should expect. 

Testimonials from previous clients and before-and-after photos are much better proof of a surgeon’s skills.

Wondering what else to ask? Check out this list and reach out to us any time. Your comfort and trust mean everything to us.