Getting ready for a facelift means more than showing up on the day of surgery. It involves a series of practical steps to help you feel prepared and reduce stress as your facelift procedure approaches. Knowing how to prepare can make your experience smoother and support a better recovery.
Before surgery, patients often ask how to prepare for a facelift in the days and weeks leading up to surgery. At Aesthetic Surgery Center in Naples, FL, Dr. Anurag Agarwal and his team are here to walk you through the process with clear, reliable advice. Our board-certified facial plastic surgeons (Dr. Agarwal and Dr. Maloney) and board-certified plastic surgeon (Dr. Holmes) —each perform facelift surgery using advanced techniques tailored to the unique needs of the patient. Whether you’re considering a UpLift™ deep plane lower face and neck lift, endoscopic facelift, or another type of facelift surgery, thoughtful preparation is key to a successful outcome.
Facelift Surgery Preparation Tips:
- Schedule your facelift consultation early to allow time for planning and medical clearance.
- Follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions to minimize risks.
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and blood-thinning supplements before your facelift surgery.
- Prepare your home and support system to ensure a smooth recovery.
- Eat healthy, stay hydrated, and maintain open communication with your surgeon throughout the process.
1. Book Your First Consultation Early with Your Facelift Surgeon
The first step in preparing for a facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is scheduling a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this appointment, your surgeon will evaluate your skin, facial structure, health history, and cosmetic goals. It’s also an opportunity for you to learn more about what the procedure involves and whether you’re a good candidate.
During your consultation, Dr. Agarwal, Dr. Maloney, or Dr. Holmes will review your medical history, current medications, and any previous surgeries to ensure you’re a good candidate for facelift surgery. If you have underlying medical conditions, you may be asked to obtain medical clearance from your primary care physician or a specialist. Photos may be taken, and recommendations will be made based on the type of facelift that suits your anatomy and desired outcome.
Many facelifts at Aesthetic Surgery Center are performed using advanced endoscopic techniques. These allow for precise tissue repositioning with smaller, hidden incisions placed discreetly around the ears or within the hairline, minimizing visible scarring and supporting a natural, refreshed look.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Booking your consultation several weeks or even months in advance gives you time to get answers to your questions, adjust medications if needed, and make arrangements for time off work and recovery.
2. Follow Instructions Provided
Once your surgery is scheduled, you’ll receive a detailed list of pre-operative and post-operative instructions. These guidelines help reduce the risk of complications and support a healthy recovery. Common instructions include when to stop eating before surgery, how to wash your face and hair the night before, and which prescriptions to fill in advance.
Be sure to follow these steps carefully. These instructions are customized for your procedure and take your medical history and surgical plan into account. If anything is unclear, reach out to your surgical team. It’s always better to ask than to assume.
3. Stop Smoking and Cut Back on Alcohol Two Weeks Before Your Procedure
Smoking restricts blood flow and can delay healing, increase your risk of infection, and interfere with the success of your facelift. Patients are strongly advised to stop smoking and avoid all nicotine products at least two weeks before and after their procedure.
Alcohol can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. It can also interfere with medications and anesthesia. Even moderate drinking can lead to complications, so it’s best to limit alcohol during the weeks leading up to surgery and during the recovery period.
If you need help quitting smoking or managing alcohol intake, ask your surgeon for support resources.
4. Avoid Medications and Supplements That Can Cause Bleeding
Many over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements can interfere with blood clotting. These include aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, fish oil, and others. You will receive a complete list of what to avoid with your pre-operative instructions.
Some prescription medications may need to be paused or adjusted before your upcoming facelift surgery, but this should only be done under your doctor’s guidance. Never stop a medication without discussing it with your surgeon or prescribing physician.
To stay safe, bring a full list of all medications and supplements to your consultation and pre-op appointment.
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5. Eat Healthy and Stay Hydrated Before Your Facelift
Proper nutrition supports your immune system and helps your body heal after surgery. In the days and weeks before your facelift, focus on eating a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid highly processed or salty foods, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Staying hydrated helps with circulation, reduces swelling, and promotes skin health. Good hydration is especially important if you will be receiving general anesthesia. Your surgeon may also recommend limiting caffeine before surgery.
Consider meal prepping before your procedure so you have easy, nourishing options available during recovery.
6. Set Up a Comfortable Recovery Space at Home
Creating a designated recovery area in your home will make the days after surgery much easier. Choose a quiet, comfortable space where you can rest with your head elevated, which helps minimize swelling and bruising.
Have extra pillows, soft blankets, and entertainment options (books, streaming services, etc.) ready in advance. Make sure essentials like water, snacks, medications, and chargers are within easy reach. A neck pillow may help keep you comfortable while resting upright.
Our surgeons do encourage patients to be up and around after surgery to promote blood flow through the legs.
7. Arrange a Ride and Support for the Day of Surgery
Facelift surgery is typically performed under deep intravenous sedation, which allows you to breathe on your own while remaining comfortably unaware during the procedure. Because this type of anesthesia wears off quickly and doesn’t usually require a breathing tube, most patients find the experience more comfortable than a full general anesthesia. You’ll still need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 48 hours. Having help with meals, medications, and household tasks will make recovery smoother and more comfortable.
If you live alone, consider hiring temporary help or asking a friend or family member to stay with you during the early recovery period. There is a nursing service in town that we recommend highly, should you choose to hire a professional.
Before & After Photos
* Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
8. Take Time Off Work and Clear Your Schedule to Rest
Facelift recovery varies by individual and by the extent of the surgical procedure. At Aesthetic Surgery Center, out-of-town patients are asked to remain in Naples for a full 14 days after surgery to allow for close monitoring and follow-up care. Many patients who work remotely can resume light activities within 4 to 5 days, but for those with in-person responsibilities, 2 to 3 weeks of downtime is often needed.
Plan to avoid strenuous activity, exercise, and heavy lifting for at least two weeks. Your surgeon will give you personalized guidelines based on your procedure and overall healing progress.
Planning ahead and clearing your schedule ensures that your body gets the rest it needs to recover fully and comfortably.
9. Get Emotionally Ready and Know What to Expect
Facial surgery can be emotionally as well as physically demanding. It’s normal to feel nervous or uncertain leading up to your facelift. Being informed about the process can ease anxiety and help set realistic expectations.
Immediately after surgery, you may feel tired, swollen, or emotional. These feelings and side effects are temporary and usually improve within the first week. Do not spend too much time in front of the mirror during the first 2 weeks. Results take time to develop, with final outcomes visible in a few months.
Your surgeon will provide reassurance and follow-up care throughout your journey.
10. Ask Questions and Bring Up Concerns at Your Pre-Surgery Visit
Your pre-operative visit is your final checkpoint before surgery. Bring a list of questions, and make sure you understand every part of the surgical plan. Common topics include:
- What type of facelift will I receive?
- Where will the incisions be placed?
- What kind of anesthesia will be used?
- What is the recovery timeline?
- What are the risks or potential complications?
- What follow-up appointments will I need?
Clear communication ensures you’re fully prepared.
11. Double-Check All Surgery Details
As your surgery date approaches, confirm all logistics:
- Surgery date, time, and arrival instructions
- Location of the surgical center
- Pre-operative skin care or shampoo requirements
- Any fasting instructions
- What to wear on the day of surgery (comfortable, loose-fitting clothing)
Make sure you’ve filled all prescriptions, arranged time off, and completed any necessary lab work. All facelift procedures are performed at Aesthetic Surgery Center’s AAAASF-accredited outpatient surgical suite, which meets the highest standards for patient safety, cleanliness, and surgical excellence.
Get the Results You Want with Aesthetic Surgery Center in Naples, FL
A facelift can restore a youthful, refreshed appearance and boost your confidence. Preparing carefully is the best way to support optimal results.
At Aesthetic Surgery Center, our expert team offers personalized care, advanced techniques, and unmatched experience. Whether you’re planning a deep plane facelift surgery, UpLift™ lower face and neck lift, or another surgical approach, our Naples-based surgeons are here to help you look and feel your best.
Schedule your facelift consultation with our award-winning Naples team today and discover what personalized rejuvenation can look like. Call Aesthetic Surgery Center now to take the first step toward a more confident you.