What you need to know before undergoing a surgical procedure
Before undergoing any sort of cosmetic or aesthetic surgical procedure with Dr Ivo Gwanmesia, it’s essential prospective patients meet certain criteria. These requirements are critical to the success of the procedure, the quality of the results and, most importantly, to the health and safety of the patient.
Where a potential patient is found not to be suitable for cosmetic surgery or any other procedure, Dr Ivo will advise on the reasons for not proceeding. Dr Ivo can suggest alternative approaches or, where appropriate, the steps to take in order to become eligible.
Who Is a Suitable Candidate for a Surgical Procedure?
GOOD CANDIDATES
Good candidates for surgical procedures with Dr Ivo Gwanmesia are adults who are in good overall physical health. They should not have uncontrolled medical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. Any ongoing health issues should be well managed before considering surgery.
Patients should be at a stable weight. Significant weight changes after surgery can affect results. Those planning major weight loss should reach their goal weight first.
Candidates should be non-smokers or willing to stop smoking at least four weeks before and after surgery. Smoking restricts blood flow to the skin and greatly increases the risk of healing problems. According to research published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, smokers have significantly higher rates of skin necrosis and wound complications following facelift surgery.
Patients should have realistic expectations about what cosmetic surgery can achieve. The goal is to look refreshed and natural, not dramatically different.
Finally, suitable candidates are able to take the necessary time off for recovery. They have realistic expectations and understand that final results take several months to fully appear.
UNSUITABLE CANDIDATES
People who don’t meet the qualifying criteria already outlined, in addition to people with bleeding disorders, those taking blood-thinning medications that cannot be stopped, people with unrealistic expectations or those who cannot commit to the recovery process.
Preparation for a Surgical Procedure
Proper preparation helps ensure the best possible outcome from your surgical procedure. Dr Ivo will provide specific instructions, but there are general guidelines that apply to most patients.
WEEKS IN ADVANCE
Stop smoking at least four weeks before surgery. Nicotine restricts blood flow and significantly increases the risk of skin death and poor wound healing. This includes cigarettes, vaping, nicotine patches, and secondhand smoke exposure.
Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other blood-thinning medications for at least two weeks before surgery. These can increase bleeding during and after the procedure. Your surgeon will provide a list of medications and supplements to avoid. Always check before stopping any prescription medication.
THE DAYS BEFORE SURGERY
Follow any specific fasting instructions. You will typically need to stop eating and drinking at midnight before your surgery. Dr Ivo will advise.
Wash your hair and body the night before surgery, as you may not be able to wash for several days afterwards.
Remove all makeup, jewellery, and nail polish before arriving at the surgical facility.
PREPARATION FOR POST-PROCEDURE
Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours. You will not be able to drive yourself, and you will need assistance during the early recovery period.
Prepare your home for recovery. Set up a comfortable resting area with your head elevated. Stock up on soft foods, as chewing may be uncomfortable at first. Have ice packs ready to help with swelling. Gather loose, comfortable clothing that buttons or zips at the front so you do not need to pull anything over your head.
Fill any prescriptions before your surgery date. This includes pain medication, antibiotics, and any other medications your surgeon prescribes.
Plan time off work and social activities. Most patients need two to three weeks before they feel comfortable in public. More strenuous jobs may require longer time away.
Risks arising from undergoing a Surgical Procedure
All surgical procedures carry some degree of risk. Understanding these risks helps you make an informed decision. Some procedures may have more or less risk than others, and the specific risks relating to your procedure will be explained to you. No surgery is without potential risks.
POTENTIAL RISKS
Bleeding and haematoma are possible after any surgery. A haematoma is a collection of blood under the skin that may require drainage. Research published in the journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery indicates that haematoma occurs in approximately 1-3% of facelift patients.
Infection is a rare but possible complication. Signs include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge from the incisions. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to reduce this risk.
Nerve injury is a concern with any facelift procedure. Temporary numbness or weakness is possible but usually resolves within weeks to months. Permanent nerve damage is rare.
Skin necrosis, or death of skin tissue, is more common in smokers. This is why stopping smoking is so important before and after surgery.
Scarring is inevitable with any surgery. Where it is feasible, incisions are placed in hidden areas, such as inside the ear canal, along the hairlinem or in the armpit, to make scars as inconspicuous as possible. Most scars fade significantly over time.
Asymmetry is possible, depending on the specific procedure, though skilled surgical technique minimises this risk. Minor differences between the two sides of the face or body are normal and usually not noticeable.
Poor wound healing, hair loss around incision sites, and reactions to anaesthesia are additional rare risks.
ADVANCE DISCUSSION
During your consultation, Dr Ivo will discuss in detail any risks relating to your procedure and explain how his techniques minimise the likelihood of complications.