Have a Consultation with Dr. Truesdale
Call our office today to schedule the first step in the journey — a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Truesdale. During that time, you will share your goals, he will evaluate your face, and provide his expert opinion on the best treatment plan and surgical approach. Expectations, results, methods, and risks will all be discussed. Dr. Truesdale will take the time to make sure you understand the plan and feel fully informed and comfortable with the surgical plan.
You’ll have plenty of time to ask questions, as Dr. Truesdale prides himself on providing the best patient experience, and it’s important to him that each of his patients understand and are excited about their upcoming surgery.
A surgical consultation requires a non-refundable $250 consultation fee. This fee is applied 100% towards ANY future surgery, so as long as you have any surgery with Dr. Truesdale, it is essentially a free consult. Surgical consult fees cannot be applied to non-surgical treatments unless Dr. Truesdale determines you are not a candidate for any surgery.
Plan for Your Surgery
After your consultation, you will meet with the Practice Manager to discuss scheduling, cost, the payment plan, and your pre-operative instructions. We can schedule you for surgery as soon as you pay the $1000 surgical deposit. We know you’re excited to see your results and work with many of our patients to schedule surgery within the next few weeks!
Detailed information with pre-operative instructions, benefits, and risks, will also be shared electronically so you have the opportunity to review the information in detail and can prepare any additional questions for Dr. Truesdale or his team.
Prepare for Your Surgery
If your procedure is scheduled for sedation or you will be placed under anesthesia, we require confirmation of the following items three (3) weeks before your procedure:
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
All patients 45 and over must have a full physical examination, an EKG, and a letter of medical clearance from their PCP or an urgent care provider stating that they are healthy enough to undergo elective facial plastic surgery. When you have your physical examination, also ask the healthcare provider to order complete blood count (CBC) and basic metabolic panel (BMP) lab work. These items must be performed within three (3) months before the date of surgery.
Patients 65 and over must have a chest X-ray in addition to the tests listed above. In special circumstances, other tests may be required prior to surgery.
There are certain medications, vitamins, and herbs that should be avoided in the two (2) weeks prior to surgery. Some of these items can cause you to bleed more than normal, or may otherwise interact with the surgical process. It is also very important to not smoke at least three (3) weeks prior to surgery. Dr. Truesdale and his team will share specific information during the consultation process. We can also help arrange after-care nursing or other support needed following your procedure.
The Week of Your Surgery
Try to relax and eat well the week of your surgery. We know you’ll be excited, but get as much rest as possible and make sure you’re comfortable with your surgical plan.
Make a list of any last-minute questions you may have for Dr. Truesdale or his team, as you will speak to them before your surgery.
There are a few things you should avoid right before surgery:
- Avoid sun exposure for five (5) days prior to surgery.
- Avoid salt, alcohol, and caffeine 24 hours prior to surgery.
- Do not eat or drink anything, not even water, after 12:00 am (midnight) the night before your surgery. If you require prescription medications, only take with a small sip of water.
Fill the prescriptions provided by Dr Truesdale, and obtain any over-the-counter supplements or medications you have been instructed to use. Also, get a COVID test, as all patients are required to email the office proof of a negative COVID test within three (3) days of surgery.
The night before surgery, shower and get a good night’s sleep. Male patients should shave the day prior to surgery.
On the Day of Your Surgery
The day of surgery, wash your face, but do not apply any makeup, lotion, perfume, powder, deodorant, or hair products. Do not wear contacts or jewelry. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, and bring a sweater.
Continue to avoid eating or drinking, even water. If you require prescription medications, take with a small sip of water.
If your procedure is scheduled for sedation or under anesthesia, it will take place at an accredited surgical center in Beverly Hills. After a surgery in the operating room, patients can go home with a friend or family member, or with an aftercare provider, after being cleared by the staff. The person caring for you will be instructed on your post-surgical care when he/she arrives to pick you up.
If you will remain awake during the procedure, you may be able to drive yourself home. Dr. Truesdale and the team will provide clear instructions based on your situation.
Heal, Recover, and Reveal the New You!
Dr. Truesdale will provide detailed information on how to promote the most effective and comfortable healing process. It is important that you follow all of Dr. Truesdale’s post-operative instructions.
Most patients experience more discomfort than pain following surgery. Dr. Truesdale will advise on a pain management protocol to help make your healing process as comfortable as possible. Do not take pain medication on an empty stomach.
If the procedure has been completed under anesthesia, for the first 24 hours, you will need someone to help you walk, even if you do not feel that you do. After 24 hours, you are encouraged to go for light walks and strolls.
Sleep on your back for at least the first (1st) week after surgery. Use multiple pillows to keep your head elevated, as this will help decrease swelling. Alternatively, you can place something to tilt your entire bed at an angle to avoid bending the neck excessively.
Do not get bandages wet for the first three (3) days. The incisions may get wet after 48 hours. Avoid hot baths, steam showers, and saunas, as steam/high temperatures can worsen swelling.
Sutures are typically removed after about a week. Swelling and bruising is common, and the outcome will continue to look better and better over time.
Every patient heals differently. Dr. Truesdale will check in with you after surgery to make sure you are doing well, and to continue to make himself available for questions.
Ongoing Care and Follow-Ups with Dr. Truesdale
Dr. Truesdale and his team will continue to be there for you after surgery as you continue the healing process.
Light cardio, such as an elliptical machine or spin bike on a low resistance can begin on post operative day seven (7). Do not engage in any heavy cardiovascular activity (running), any activity that involves straining (weightlifting), or anything that involves bending over (yoga or pilates) for at least three (3) weeks, unless otherwise instructed.
Continue to avoid aspirin (ASA, Excedrin) or anti-inflammatory medications (Motrin, Ibuprofen, Advil, Excedrin, Naproxen, Nuprin, Anacin, etc.) until you have clearance from Dr. Truesdale.
Depending on your surgery, we will ask you to schedule a follow-up appointment after your procedure.