When preparing for facial surgery, following the right pre and post-operative care is crucial to ensuring a smooth recovery and achieving the best results. We know that this is a particularly sensitive time, where you want to feel as informed and prepared as possibly. Which is why, under the expert guidance of Dr. Matthew Brace at Guelph Facial Plastics, we’re here to help you on your journey every step of the way. Here’s what you need to know:
Preparing for Surgery
1. Medical Preparations
Before your surgery, you’ll need to complete a few medical checks to ensure you're ready for the procedure. These might include:
- ECG: This helps assess your heart’s condition.
- Bloodwork: Essential for checking overall health and identifying any potential issues.
2. Medication Adjustments
Dr. Brace will advise you on managing your medications:
- Stop Blood Thinners: Cease taking any blood thinners, including Aspirin, seven days prior to surgery unless instructed otherwise.
- Prescription Medications: Ensure your prescribed medications are ready for pick-up about a week before surgery.
3. Optional Supplements
To help reduce swelling and bruising, you may consider:
- Arnica Tablets: Start taking these the day before surgery.
- Pineapple or Bromelain Tablets: If advised, begin these six weeks before surgery.
4. Hygiene and Personal Care
- Hair and Nails: If your incisions will be around your hairline, dye your hair at least a week before surgery. Remove nail polish and enhancements close to your surgery date.
- Skin Preparation: Consider grooming your eyebrows and eyelashes a week before eyelid surgeries.
5. Shopping List for Supplies
Prepare for your recovery by having the following on hand:
- Hydrogen Peroxide and Q-tips: For cleaning incisions.
- Polysporin Ointment and Vaseline: To keep incisions greasy and promote healing.
- Sterile Water and Ice Packs: Essential for reducing inflammation and soothing the skin.
- Extra Strength Tylenol and Advil: For managing pain post-surgery.
The Day Before Surgery
Make sure you:
- Stop Blood Thinners: As advised by Dr. Brace.
- Remove Nail Polish: To allow monitoring of oxygen levels.
- Prepare Light Meals: Have easy-to-digest foods like soup ready for after your surgery.
- Plan Your Route: Ensure you know the way to Guelph Surgical Suites and have a caregiver to drive you.
Post-Operative Care
1. Immediate Post-Surgery Care
After your surgery, Dr. Brace will monitor you to ensure you don’t experience any immediate side effects. Once you’re cleared, you can go home. Here’s what to expect:
- Swelling and Sensitivity: Your face may be swollen and sensitive. These symptoms usually subside within a few days.
- Driving: Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you overnight.
2. Wound Care
Proper wound care is vital for healing:
- Cleaning Incisions: Use a 50:50 mix of hydrogen peroxide and water on a Q-tip to gently clean the incision lines twice a day. Apply Polysporin or Vaseline afterward.
- Dressings: Dr. Brace will replace your initial dressing with an elastic facial garment the day after surgery.
3. Managing Discomfort
- Ice Packs: Apply ice packs for 20 minutes every hour while awake for the first three days to help reduce swelling and bruising.
- Medication: Switch from prescribed pain medications to Tylenol or Advil as soon as you can to prevent nausea.
4. Nutrition and Hydration
- Light Meals: Initially, stick to soft foods and soups. Resume a normal diet as soon as you feel ready.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to aid your recovery.
5. Activity Restrictions
- Rest and Recovery: Avoid strenuous exercise for 2-4 weeks. Gentle walks are fine when you feel comfortable.
- Head Elevation: Keep your head elevated, especially while sleeping, to minimize swelling.
- Facial Garment: Wear your facial garment 24/7 for the first two weeks, then at night for an additional two weeks.
Experience You Can Trust
Choosing the right care team is essential for a successful facial surgery journey. With Dr. Matthew Brace at Guelph Facial Plastics, you’ll feel supported and confident every step of the way. Dr. Brace’s unique blend of compassion and extensive expertise ensures that your individual needs and concerns are always prioritized. From your first consultation to your final recovery, he is committed to providing personalized, high-quality care.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Brace today and embark on your journey to enhance your natural beauty with the expert support you deserve.
