Deep Plane Facelift Checklist

Facelift Checklist: Before and After Your Deep Plane Surgery

A Deep Plane facelift is one of the most transformative procedures in facial rejuvenation, but outstanding results depend on more than surgical technique alone. Over the course of 8,000+ surgeries, I have developed a comprehensive checklist that my patients follow to ensure the safest experience and the most natural, long-lasting outcome. This guide covers every step from pre-operative preparation through full recovery.

Pre-Operative Checklist

Medical Clearance and Lab Work

Every patient undergoes a thorough medical evaluation before surgery:

• Complete blood count (CBC) and coagulation panel
• Metabolic panel to assess kidney and liver function
• Cardiac evaluation (ECG and, for patients over 50, cardiology clearance)
• Chest X-ray when indicated by medical history
• Standardized photographs for surgical planning

These exams can be completed in your home country and sent digitally, or performed in Londrina upon arrival.

Stop Smoking: 6 to 8 Weeks Before

This is non-negotiable. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and increases the risk of skin necrosis. Stop all nicotine products, including cigarettes, vapes, patches, and gum, at least 6 to 8 weeks before surgery and remain nicotine-free for the same period afterward.

Stop Blood Thinners and Certain Supplements

At least two weeks before your procedure, discontinue aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, omega-3 fish oil, ginkgo biloba, and any supplements that increase bleeding. Consult your prescribing physician before stopping prescription medications.

Prepare Your Recovery Space

Before you leave for surgery, set up a comfortable recovery area at home or at your hotel:

• Extra pillows to keep your head elevated at 30 to 45 degrees
• Ice packs or frozen peas wrapped in soft cloth
• Soft, button-front shirts (nothing that pulls over your head)
• Bland, easy-to-chew foods prepared in advance
• Prescriptions filled and within arm’s reach

Plan Time Off Work

Most patients need 3 to 4 weeks away from professional obligations. If your work is physically demanding, plan for up to 6 weeks. Remote or desk-based workers can often return in 2 to 3 weeks with some limitations.

Day of Surgery: What to Expect

You will arrive at the surgical center early in the morning after fasting for at least 8 hours:

• Pre-operative markings: I draw the surgical plan on your face while standing, about 20 minutes.
• Anesthesia: General anesthesia administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist.
• Surgery duration: Approximately 4 hours for a full Deep Plane facelift with fat grafting. Combined procedures add additional time.
• Overnight stay: One night at the surgical center under nursing supervision.

The Deep Plane technique repositions the deeper muscular layer (SMAS) rather than simply pulling the skin, producing a more natural result with less tension and longer-lasting rejuvenation.

Post-Operative Recovery Checklist

Week 1: Rest and Protection

• Keep your head elevated, even while sleeping
• Apply cold compresses as directed to minimize swelling
• Take prescribed pain medication and antibiotics on schedule
• Avoid bending over, heavy lifting, or any straining
• Attend your first post-operative visit (usually day 2 or 3)

Bruising and swelling are expected and will peak around days 3 to 5 before gradually improving.

Week 2: Suture Removal

Sutures are typically removed between days 7 and 10. Most patients feel significantly more comfortable after this visit. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation.

Weeks 3 to 4: Gradual Return to Normal Life

By the third week, the majority of visible bruising has faded and swelling has decreased noticeably. Most patients feel confident enough to return to work and social activities. You should still avoid strenuous exercise and direct sun exposure.

Months 2 to 6: Final Results Emerge

While you will see a dramatic improvement within the first month, the final result of a Deep Plane facelift continues to refine over 3 to 6 months as residual swelling resolves and tissues settle into their new position. Scars mature and fade progressively over 12 months.

Travel Planning for International Patients

We regularly welcome patients from the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. Here is a practical timeline:

• Arrive 2 days before surgery: This gives you time for your in-person consultation, any remaining lab work, and to rest after your flight.
• Stay 10 to 14 days after surgery: This covers your critical recovery period, suture removal, and final clearance to fly home.
• Total trip: Plan for approximately 2 weeks in Londrina.

Our team assists with hotel recommendations, airport transfers, and a bilingual coordinator who accompanies you throughout your stay. Londrina has a regional airport (LDB) with daily connections to Sao Paulo and major hubs.

Dr. Zamarian’s Comprehensive Care Approach

With over 8,000 surgeries performed and two decades of facial specialization, my practice is built on meticulous planning, advanced technique, and attentive follow-up. Every Deep Plane facelift I perform includes structural fat grafting to restore volume, because true rejuvenation addresses both sagging and volume loss simultaneously.

I personally follow each patient from the initial consultation to the final result. For international patients, we maintain remote follow-up through video calls and coordinate with your local physician as needed.

Learn more about the procedure on our dedicated page: Deep Plane Facelift with Dr. Zamarian.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Deep Plane facelift results last?

A Deep Plane facelift produces results that typically last 10 to 15 years, significantly longer than traditional techniques. Because the deeper muscular layer is repositioned rather than just the skin, the outcome is more durable and ages gracefully over time.

Is it safe to fly after a facelift?

Most patients are cleared to fly 10 to 14 days after surgery. By that point, sutures have been removed and the initial healing phase is complete. We provide a detailed medical travel letter and remain available by phone throughout your journey home.

Can I combine a facelift with other procedures?

Yes. It is very common to combine a Deep Plane facelift with blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), rhinoplasty, or chin augmentation in a single session. Combining procedures reduces overall recovery time and allows for a more harmonious facial result. We discuss the best plan during your consultation.

Ready to Start Your Facelift Journey?

If you are considering a Deep Plane facelift and want a surgeon who combines advanced technique with personalized care, reach out. Our team is ready to guide you from your first question to your final result.

Contact us directly on WhatsApp: Send a message to our team. We reply in English within 24 hours.