The Dos and Don’ts of Skincare Pre- and Post- Surgery

When you’re planning plastic surgery, it’s easy to focus on the procedure itself. Your skincare routine may feel like a side detail. However, you shouldn’t underestimate its importance. Your skin should be calm before surgery. It also needs to be healthy to recover properly and give you the best post-op results. While your surgeon’s instructions always come first, this guide will go over the basics about how to care for your skin before and after going under the knife. 

Why Skincare Is Important Before Surgery 

In the run-up to having plastic surgery, like a facelift, you need to do some prep work on your skin. It will handle stress better if it's hydrated and in good condition. If your skin is dry or inflamed, it can feel more sensitive and take longer to heal. 

Pre-Surgery Skincare Tips

Fortunately, many clinics will give you a structured plan. If you’re looking at options like the Dr. Jay Calvert plastic surgery clinic, you’ll see skincare preparation mentioned as part of the overall process. Here’s what that usually involves. 

Firstly, wash your face with a gentle cleanser, ideally something fragrance-free. Moisturize every day, morning and night. You want your skin barrier to be in good shape, helping keep moisture in and irritation out. Finally, wear sunscreen every day to reduce the stress on your skin. 

What Not to Do

Leading up to your facial plastic surgery, avoid trying anything new. That means no new products or facial beauty treatments like facials. Even natural formulas can irritate your skin especially if they include essential oils or fragrance. Usually, you should also put a pause on harsh exfoliation and strong actives like retinoids. Chemical peels, strong at-home acids, and anything that leaves your skin feeling tight or raw may be too much. 

How to Care for Your Skin After Surgery 

After surgery, take things as slowly and gently as possible and always follow your prescribed plan. Cleanse carefully with a mild product when your surgeon says it’s ok. Pat, don’t rub your face dry. For hydration, use a clean, barrier-supporting moisturizer with dermatologist-approved ingredients like ceramides to help healing. 

Perhaps most importantly, take sun protection seriously. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons warns that UV radiation can damage healing skin cells and affect collagen. It can even contribute to unwanted skin color changes. Stay indoors, or use hats, shade, and sunscreen when outside, and only once your surgeon says it's safe. 

When to Reintroduce Your Usual Products 

Your skin may act more sensitive than usual after the trauma of facial surgery. To begin with, stick with the basics: cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Then, add in your usual products one at a time. That way, if something causes irritation, you’ll know the culprit. 

Be extra cautious when it comes to more powerful products like retinoids and exfoliating acids like AHAs, BHAs, and PHAs. It’s quite likely you’ll need to avoid these entirely for a while and wait for your skin to fully settle. The timeline will depend on your exact procedure, so check with your surgeon. 

Endnote

Generally speaking, around surgery time, your skincare routine should be minimal, gentle, and tailored. Keep things simple before your procedure and avoid anything that could irritate your skin. Support your body’s natural healing process afterwards with light cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection. If you’re ever unsure, ask your surgeon before adding any new steps to your routine. Ultimately, the right skincare can help lock in that perfect post-surgery look you’ve been waiting for.