What If I Get Sick Before My Facelift Procedure?

Undergoing plastic surgery is a major decision that takes months of preparation. However, even the best-laid plans must be flexible in case you get sick before surgery. This is the advice we offer our patients coming in for plastic surgery procedures including facelift and neck lift at our suburban Atlanta practice.

If you feel sick in the days leading up to surgery, tell your doctor as soon as possible. They will be able to tell if your signs are serious enough to warrant postponing your procedure.  It may be tempting to wait and see if your symptoms improve, but you may be charged unwanted fees if your procedure is canceled at the last minute. 

If you start feeling sick during the two weeks prior to surgery, notify your surgeon immediately. Together, you can analyze your symptoms and decide the best course of action for your treatment.

Just because you’re feeling unwell doesn’t necessarily mean you need to reschedule your procedure. The severity of your illness and the extent of your symptoms all play a role in this decision. If you have a mild sore throat, for example, you may be ok to continue with surgery. However, you should discuss your treatment options with your surgeon if you experience any of the following signs:

• Fever: A high or unexplained fever requires a delay. A low-grade temperature (between 100 and 102 degrees) may be allowed in some situations. 
• Vomiting: Vomiting is a very straightforward sign that your body is feeling unwell. Vomiting after surgery can also put unnecessary stress on your incisions during facelift recovery , so postpone your treatment until you are feeling better.
• Breathing Problems: A chronic cough, bronchitis, or shortness of breath are all signs you should reschedule your procedure. Pulmonary function tests are often performed before surgery to make sure your breathing capacity is in a safe range. 
• Infection: Skin infections, urinary tract infections, sepsis, and meningitis are all conditions that will impact your surgery plans. 
• Contagious Illness: Any contagious illnesses—such as strep throat, chickenpox, or COVID-19—will require a delay until you are no longer contagious. 

Don’t feel embarrassed or worried if you get sick in the weeks before surgery. Let your doctor know as soon as you can and they can help you decide the best time to undergo your procedure.

If you’re interested in a facelift or other plastic surgery procedures offered at our Atlanta-area practice, please request a consultation online. You can also contact our helpful staff by phone at (770) 421-1242.

The post What If I Get Sick Before My Facelift Procedure? first appeared on Plastic Surgery Center of the South.