Cheek surgery helps add volume or lift the cheeks. As we age, the cheeks tend to lose volume and sag. Some people also never develop the desired volume in the cheeks and are bothered by their cheeks being too large or thin. Here is all you need to know about preparing for cheek surgery.
Facial cosmetic procedures are the gold standard when it comes to restoring a youthful appearance. According to the latest plastic surgery statistics, non-surgical facial procedures like lip fillers and botulinum toxin lead in monthly search volume. One way to revitalise and slim the face is buccal fat pad reduction or cheek reduction surgery.
What Does Cheek Surgery Involve?
A few options are available for those looking to enhance or reduce the sizes of their cheeks. Non-surgical options are also available, like the use of derma fillers. Surgical cheek argumentation involves general anaesthesia. The doctor makes an incision in the cheek, but this depends on the surgeon’s technique.
Fat transfer to the face can enhance sunken cheeks. The doctor will make a small incision near your cheeks. The incision usually measures a few millimetres in length. Your surgeon will talk you through the technique they’ll use during your initial appointment. Another option is cheek reduction surgery which involves removing or reducing the buccal fat pad to create a slimmer-looking face.
The surgeon uses sutures, tapes or skin adhesives to close the incisions. Cheek argumentation surgery often results in softer-appearing and fuller cheeks. Some patients may even notice a little lift in their cheeks. How long the results last will depend on the technique used.
How Should You Prepare For Cheek Surgery
You need to prepare for cheek surgery to ensure you’re physically and mentally ready for the surgery and to make the results last. Here is how you can prepare for cheek surgery:
1. Ensure You’re In Good Health
The best way to ensure you achieve the best outcome is to ensure you’re in good health. Your surgeon will probably request lab work or medical examinations before your surgery. This allows your surgeon to catch and prepare for any potential complications.
2. Boost Your Immune System
Boosting your immune system is vital to facilitate a speedy recovery. That means eating healthy; add lots of protein and fats to your diet and take plenty of vitamins and other essential nutrients. Nutrients help boost red blood cells for faster wound healing while boosting your immune system to reduce your risk of infection.
3. Hydrate
Drinking lots of water, days or weeks before your surgery, is vital. In fact, 6 to 8 glasses before surgery are crucial since you will be required to fast, including water, the day of your surgery.
4. Avoid Blood Thinning Medication
Avoid blood thinning medications several weeks before your cheek surgery. Share any medications and supplements you may be on. Some drugs increase your risk of excessive bleeding during surgery.
5. Avoid Smoking
Surgery and smoking do not mix. If you smoke, your doctor will advise you to quit before and after your surgery. Cigarettes contain chemicals that increase your risk of developing life-threatening complications and may impede healing.
6. Avoid Alcohol Before Surgery
Alcohol is an immune system suppressant. Avoid taking alcohol at least 3 days before your surgery and throughout the recovery process. Reducing your intake of alcohol or quitting 2 to 8 weeks before your surgery is even better, as it means less downtime and a lower risk of developing complications while recovering from the procedure.
7. Avoid Too Much Sun Exposure
It’s always best to have a natural skin tone before cosmetic surgery to optimise the results.
Following these lifestyle habits before your cheek surgery will help prevent post-operative complications and enhance your recovery.
If you are considering cheek surgery, book a consultation today at the Harley Clinic and discuss your options.
