Preparing for Your Procedure

Your upcoming facial rejuvenation procedure is an exciting step toward looking and feeling your best, and we are honored to be part of that journey with you. Preparing for surgery is a collaborative process between you and our team, and this guide is designed to help you feel confident, informed, and ready every step of the way. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know to prepare safely and comfortably—from medical instructions and home setup tips to emotional readiness and recovery expectations. Our goal is to ensure you feel supported, knowledgeable, and empowered as you move toward a smooth, successful procedure and a beautiful, natural result.

PacifiCoast Ambulatory Surgicenter - Our Surgical Facility

At P.C.A.S., your safety and comfort are our highest priorities. Our surgery center is fully accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care A.A.A.H.C., reflecting the exceptional standards we uphold for patient safety, quality of care, and surgical excellence. Because our facility is owned and operated by the FAC physicians, we are able to provide a seamless, highly personalized experience—one designed with your needs, comfort, and peace of mind at the forefront.

Our board-certified surgeons and experienced nursing team are committed to creating a caring and supportive environment from your first visit through recovery.

Welcome & Next Steps

Your surgical journey begins with preparation. We’ll walk you through every detail—from your pre-op visit to recovery—so you feel confident, supported, and ready.

Throughout your journey we will help guide you through each step providing relevant information along the way. We use both email and text messaging to ensure you have the information you need when you need it.

Before Your Surgery

|Pre-Operative Appointments

We will schedule you two pre-op appointments. One virtual appointment with your surgical coordinator and one with your surgeon. Your pre-op visits are scheduled 2-4 weeks prior to your surgical date. These appointments are designed to give you everything you need to feel fully prepared and at ease.

Please allow 1 to 1.5 hours for the visit with your surgeon, and don’t forget to bring a list of any questions you’d like to cover.

Refining Your Surgical Plan: Your surgeon will review your goals with you in detail, discuss the techniques he’ll use, and refine your surgical plan to ensure it’s perfectly tailored to your needs.

Questions & Answers: Your pre-op visits are your time to ask any and all questions—big or small—so you go into surgery feeling informed and confident.

Testing & Clearances: If your bloodwork and EKG are done with us, we’ll complete them during this appointment and provide you with lab orders if needed. If testing is done with your primary care physician, please bring results or have them faxed to (949) 496-2705.

Medications & Products: We’ll review any prescriptions, supplements, and skincare products you’ll need before and after surgery, making sure you’re set up for a smooth recovery.

What to Expect:

Your Virtual Pre-Op with your Clinical Coordinator to review:
- Health history and medications
- Pre- and post-operative instructions
- Required testing (bloodwork, EKG, clearances)
- Recovery timeline and expectations

Your Pre-Op with your Surgeon to:
- Refine your surgical plan and aesthetic goals
- Review surgical techniques and expected outcome
- Perform EKG in office if needed
- Answer any questions

Financial Preparation

Once your deposit is received, the remaining balance is due at your pre-op appointment or at least two weeks before surgery.

Payments may be made by cashier’s check, personal check, or credit/debit card. If you choose check or cash, you’ll receive a special gift card on your surgery day to use toward future services or products at our office.

Planning & Organization

Confirm your surgery date, time, and check-in location

Arrange transportation and 24-hour care

Begin preparing your recovery space at home (comfort station at home Link)

Preparing for Surgery at a Glance

Two to Four Weeks Before

Attend pre-op appointments
Stop aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, supplements*
Arrange household help, childcare, pet care
Reduce sodium; increase hydration
Prepare your Comfort Station (link to comfort station outline)

* Unless directed otherwise by your surgeon

The Week of Surgery

Eat nutritious meals
Stay hydrated
Notify the office if you become ill

The Night Before Surgery

Wash face and hair; avoid applying all products afterward
Light dinner, no food or drink after midnight
Take prescribed medications if instructed

The Morning of Surgery

Shower; no makeup, lotions, deodorant
Wear loose clothing that doesn't go over the head (button-up shirt, jacket with zipper)
Bring medication list, glasses, prescriptions
Arrive with your support person

First 48 Hours After Surgery

Rest with head elevated
Soft, low-sodium foods
Avoid bending, lifting, straining

Days 3-14 After Surgery

Swelling and bruising gradually improve
Resume light activity when off pain medication

Week 3-6 After Surgery

Gradually return to full activity
Begin long-term skincare

Preparing Your Home for Recovery

Before Your Surgery

| A comfortable, calm home environment supports healing

Arrange a recovery area with:
- Extra pillows to keep your head elevated
- Neck travel pillow or rolled towels (use behind neck for facial surgery). If using travel pillow, position with the open end up so it looks like a 'U' do not place around the neck.
- Soft, easy-to-remove clothing that doesn't go over your head
- Bedside clock
- Phone and phone charger
- Night light
- Kleenex
- Low-sodium comfort foods and snacks
- Small trash can with trash bags (at bedside)
- Baby wipes (for quick clean ups)
- Pen and paper
- Hand sanitizer
- Bendable straw
- Blood pressure cuff or machine
- Cold compresses (if recommended)
- Prescribed medications and aftercare products
- Gentle facial cleanser, gauze, and ointment (as instructed)

Setting up your room:
- Remove anything you may trip over (including pets).
- Keep your phone near your bed. Keep important numbers handy (surgeon, pharmacy, etc.).
- Install nightlights in the bedroom and bathroom for your safety.
- Have a robe and pair of slippers nearby.
- Have a chair near your bed or bathroom so you can sit and rest when necessary.
- Place frequently used items (phone, water, snacks, TV remote, book) within reach.
- Prepare easy-to-digest meals and plenty of fluids

Food and drink supplies:
- Plenty of water and juices
- Low-sodium soups
- Soft foods (mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, etc), for the first 24-48 hours.
- Fresh vegetables pre-cut with a healthy dip.
- Fresh fruit with yogurt, cottage cheese with fruit or soybeans.
- Steamed or baked fish or chicken.
- Protein drinks and smoothies.

From your local drugstore:
- Lip balm (dry lips)
- Listerine
- Tylenol
- Miralax (constipation relief)
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Q-tips
- Polysporin antibiotic ointment
- Ophthalmic ointment (System PM, GenTeal Tears PM, etc.)
- Lubricating eye drops
- Eye stream or eye wash saline
- Facial or baby washcloths
- Bendable straws

When you go venture outside:
- Hat or scarf
- Sunglasses
- Cover-up or make-up
- Sunscreen

Day of Surgery Logistics

Arrival Details

Your surgical location and check-in time will be confirmed prior to surgery.
Please arrive on time and bring:
Remove all jewelry, contact lenses, and piercings.
Do not wear makeup, lotions, perfume, or nail polish.
Wear comfortable, loose clothing - preferably a button-up or zip-up top.

Transportation

Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from the surgery center.
You CANNOT drive or take a rideshare alone after anesthesia

Why Your Consultation Is So Important

A consultation with one of our board-certified facial plastic surgeons is an essential first step in your cosmetic journey. During this one-on-one meeting, you will:

Receive expert advice : Our surgeon will evaluate your unique facial features and discuss your aesthetic concerns to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Discuss goals : Whether you're interested in a facelift, rhinoplasty, or other cosmetic procedures, this is your opportunity to share your vision and ensure that your expectations align with realistic outcomes.

Get to know your surgeon : Building a rapport with your surgeon helps foster trust and confidence in your treatment plan and outcomes.

Understand your options : You'll learn about the various surgical and non-surgical options available and which would best achieve your desired results.

Richard Gangnes M.D., F.A.C.S.

Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Gangnes specializes exclusively in facial cosmetic surgery and has over 30 years of experience in this dynamic, evolving area of medical art and science.

His passion for facial cosmetic surgery began with his graduation from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri, ranked in the top 3 in the nation the last 5 years by U.S. News.

He completed his surgical residency in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery with a special emphasis and interest in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of California, Irvine where he is currently a clinical professor actively involved in teaching residents and fellows the art and science of facial plastic surgery.

Bryan Brandon M.D.

Double Board Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Brandon’s passion for helping patients look and feel their best is what initially drove him to the field of Facial Plastic Surgery. His artistic eye provides his patients a natural and refreshed appearance. Dr. Brandon always strives to provide a comfortable and collaborative experience for every individual patient, combining personal attentive care with flawless results. His meticulous approach to plastic surgery delivers his patients a natural and balanced result, while achieving each individual’s unique aesthetic goals.

Dr. Brandon continues to be actively involved in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery research, co-authoring several journal publications, book chapters, and is an active member of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is double board certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery.

Preparing for a Virtual Consultation

To get the most out of your consultation, we recommend taking the following steps:

Plan for your consultation location: You’ll want to be in a quiet, private, well lit area. Prepare any specific questions you want to discuss with your surgeon regarding the procedure, recovery, risks, or expected outcomes.

Plan for your connection: You can use your phone, tablet or computer to connect with your surgeon. You will receive a meeting link when you book your appointment and again 1 hour before your consultation.

We’re Here to Support You

Our team is dedicated to making sure you feel confident and informed every step of the way. If you have any questions before your consultation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (949) 276-4141

Enjoy Interest-Free Financing for Your Procedure

Embark on your surgical journey without financial stress. Take advantage of our special offer: 12 months interest-free financing for your surgical procedure. Achieve the body you desire with flexible payment options and the expertise of our skilled surgical team. Don't let finances hold you back—reclaim your confidence today!