Facial Fat Transplantation in St. Petersburg, FL

Preparing for Your Facial Plastic Surgery: Pre & Post-Operative Guide

Undergoing facial plastic surgery is an exciting step toward restoring confidence and enhancing your natural beauty. Whether you are scheduled for a facelift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, or another cosmetic procedure, proper preparation and aftercare are essential for a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.

Below is a helpful guide with the most common Do’s and Do Not’s before and after surgery.

Pre-Operative Do’s

• Follow your surgeon’s pre-op instructions carefully — every procedure has specific guidelines tailored to your health.
• Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery, as nicotine delays healing.
• Avoid blood-thinning medications like Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and certain supplements (Fish Oil, Vitamin E) unless cleared by your physician.
• Arrange transportation and aftercare support — you will need a responsible adult with you for 24 hours.
• Maintain a healthy diet and hydration leading up to surgery.
• Prepare a comfortable recovery area at home with pillows, medications, cold compresses, and entertainment.
• Notify the office if you develop any illness, fever, or infection prior to surgery.

Pre-Operative Don’ts

• Don’t eat or drink after midnight the night before your surgery — unless instructed otherwise.
• Don’t wear makeup, contact lenses, or jewelry on surgery day.
• Don’t forget to wear loose, comfortable clothing that buttons or zips in the front.
• Don’t drive yourself home — anesthesia requires supervision.

Post-Operative Do’s

• Take medications as prescribed to manage pain and reduce infection risk.
• Sleep with your head elevated for at least 1 week to minimize swelling.
• Use ice packs or cold compresses as recommended for comfort.
• Attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon.
• Eat nutritious foods that support healing — soft, easy-to-chew meals are often best.
• Keep surgical dressings clean and dry until cleared to remove or shower.
• Be patient — swelling and bruising are normal and improve gradually.

Post-Operative Don’ts

• Don’t bend over, strain, or lift anything heavy for at least 2 weeks.
• Don’t engage in strenuous exercise or return to the gym until cleared by your surgeon.
• Don’t apply makeup near incisions until fully healed.
• Don’t smoke or vape — this greatly prolongs healing time.
• Don’t sunbathe or use tanning beds — protect healing skin from UV exposure.
• Don’t remove steri-strips, sutures, or nasal splints unless instructed.

When to Contact the Office

Call your surgeon if you experience:

• Increasing pain not relieved with medication
• Excessive redness, swelling, or drainage from incision sites
• Fever above 101°F
• Shortness of breath or chest pain (call 911 immediately)

Your Comfort and Confidence Matter

Our team is here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions or concerns at any point during your preparation or recovery, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

With careful preparation and attentive aftercare, you’ll be on track for a safe recovery and beautiful results!