Planning for a Big Event?
It’s Never Too Late to Look Your Best
           
By Christopher R. Hove, M.D.

            “Doctor, my daughter’s getting married in 3 weeks,” or “my 10 year high school reunion is next month,” or “we’re going on a cruise in the spring, so what can I do to look my best?” – these are statements I hear all the time from patients hoping that it is not too late to have a cosmetic procedure to enhance their appearance before the “big day.” Simply speaking, it is never too late to enhance your appearance.  Ideally, the more time you have the more options there are available, but whether your upcoming event is next week or next year, there are many options to choose from.  To help you plan for your upcoming events, here is a basic recommended timeline showing the minimum amount of time you need to allow for different procedures:

            1-4 weeks before the event:  Botox (to soften frown and laugh lines), Restylane or Juvederm (for lip enhancement and smile line reduction), and microdermabrasion (to give your face a natural, healthy glow);
            4-6 weeks before the event:  eyelid rejuvenation (blepharoplasty);
            6-8 weeks before the event:  face/brow/neck lifting, nasal reshaping (rhinoplasty), laser/chemical peels, and chin/cheek implants;
            8-12 weeks before the event:  laser hair removal and laser vein removal.

            This time line takes into account average recovery time for each procedure.  Remember that you also need to allow adequate time for a consultation and for scheduling the procedures.  Obviously the more time you have, the more options there are available.  Please consult your facial plastic surgery professional to see how you can enhance your appearance before your next “big event.”