State-of-the-art technology, groundbreaking research, and advanced techniques have significantly expanded our capabilities with aesthetic medicine, whether for the body, breasts, or face.
However, cosmetic surgery by itself cannot sustain results. For example, patients interested in a facelift may not realize the procedure improves facial contours, but does not create them. In other words, it enhances what you already have instead of making you resemble someone else.
And as much as you may wish to permanently change something about your looks, facial plastic surgery does not stop the natural aging process, nor is it immune to bodily changes like weight fluctuation or an unhealthy lifestyle.
With that in mind, here are some helpful hints to maintain your facelift results for many years to come.
Give Yourself Sufficient Time to Recover
The recovery process is critical and can be challenging. We understand it might feel frustrating to step back from your regular routine for several days. However, your role in following Dr. Pugash’s after-surgery instructions is equally as essential as the work he does in the operating room.
Recovery is the foundation of maintaining your results to age gracefully well into the following decades.
Protect Yourself From the Sun
Exposure to the sun’s UV rays is harmful to your skin and the leading cause of aging. The sun can cause premature aging known as photoaging and wreak havoc on your facelift results. Dr. Pugash recommends you apply an SPF 30+ sunscreen every day, especially during the initial stages of recovery. Being sun-smart is a critical approach to add to your anti-aging efforts.
Eat a Balanced Diet
You’ve heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” Well, it’s more accurate to say what you put in your body affects what other people see. For example, a healthy diet including dark greens, raw fruits, and carefully sourced proteins helps skin stay nourished and youthfully radiant. Avoid processed foods and sugar, which can accelerate the breakdown of collagen fibers.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking is disastrous for your overall health. During facelift recovery, it slows the healing process and can cause irreparable damage. In addition, nicotine dries skin to make it age rapidly and shorten the lifespan of your facelift results.
Hydrate
To complement a healthy diet and exercise regimen, you should pay close attention to your fluid intake. Avoid sugary and carbonated drinks, opting for good old-fashioned H2O. Water will keep your skin smooth and fresh and maintain support for underlying tissues.
Diligently Follow a Skin Care Regimen
Taking good care of your skin after facelift surgery will maintain a refreshed, youthful appearance for many years to come. Discuss your home skin care regimen with Dr. Pugash and adjust per his recommendations.
A consistently healthy skin care routine is essential at any age, but more so as you get older. Taking good care of your skin can slow the effects of aging. Make sure to incorporate cleansing, exfoliating, toning, and moisturizing.
If you’d like to learn more about the importance of after-surgery care and how to maintain your facelift results, please contact us online or call us at (604) 522-5199.