How to prepare for a facelift procedure?

The facelift refers to a plastic surgery procedure that improves facial appearance by targeting the skin, subcutaneous tissues, and sometimes muscles. This procedure allows the repositioning of sagging skin, the tightening of weakened structures and the restoration of a firmer, more rejuvenated appearance. It addresses visible signs of aging, notably skin and muscle laxity. However, certain wrinkles, such as those around the eyes or mouth, are not directly treated by a facelift. To address these areas, complementary techniques may be necessary, such as chemical peels, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), dermabrasion, or botulinum toxin injections.

The lift procedure can take several forms depending on the targeted area. The frontal lift reduces glabellar lines and repositions the brows. The neck lift addresses excess skin and fat in that area. The temporal lift treats brow descent. The endoscopic lift of the face, performed through small incisions, elevates the upper and midface. The mini lift, less invasive, redefines the facial contour. The lift targeting the midface acts on the lower eyelids, cheekbones, and tear troughs. These techniques, alone or combined, enable a personalized facial rejuvenation approach tailored to each individual’s features.

Before a facelift, a thorough preparation is essential to ensure patient safety and result quality. A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon assesses skin condition, facial muscle tone, and patient expectations to confirm feasibility. A medical evaluation, including blood tests and sometimes an electrocardiogram, detects any contraindications to anesthesia or surgery. A mandatory consult with the anesthesiologist adapts anesthesia to the patient’s profile and reduces preoperative risk. Stopping medications such as aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or certain supplements (vitamin E, omega-3, ginkgo) is essential. They increase bleeding and hematoma risk, which can impair healing or affect aesthetic results. The cessation of smoking is crucial. Nicotine constricts blood vessels, reduces tissue oxygenation, and increases the risk of healing complications such as skin necrosis.

In practice, washing hair the day before prevents this constraint during the first postoperative days when dressings remain in place. Preparing easy-to-wear garments avoids stressing the face and sutures. Fasting prevents vomiting under general anesthesia, a serious complication called pulmonary aspiration. Omitting makeup, jewelry, and nail polish reduces infection risk. Planning a period of rest after surgery permits managing normal sequelae such as edema, bruising, and fatigue, while ensuring postoperative follow-up. Each recommendation thus aims to secure the procedure, optimize healing, and promote harmonious, lasting outcomes.

• TREPSAT F. & al. Volumetric face lifting. Plastic Reconstructive Surgery (2001).

• BARTON F. E. & al. Face Lift. Plastic Reconstructive Surgery (2015).

• ZINS J. E. Facelift: History and Anatomy. Clinical Plastic Surgery (2019).

• MENDELSON B. & al. Asian Face Lift with the Composite Face Lift Technique. Plastic Reconstructive Surgery (2022).