Absolute Cosmetic staff discussing face lifts and mini face lifts using a model of a human face.

Facelift Suitability & Planning

Explore Facelift Surgery

Thinking About Facelift surgery?

A facelift is a surgical procedure that requires careful planning and preparation. This page outlines the essential facelift requirements you need to meet before undergoing surgery with Dr Glenn Murray at Absolute Cosmetic in Perth.

Why Planning is Essential

Planning is a critical component of any cosmetic procedure, especially for surgeries such as facelifts, which involve multiple anatomical layers, careful tissue handling, and a considered recovery process. Each patient’s anatomy, medical history, and personal goals must be evaluated to determine whether facelift surgery is suitable.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please be aware that you must have a GP referral before booking a facelift consultation with Dr Murray. Consultations can be booked online, or by contacting our reception team.

Facelift Suitability

A facelift is considered by individuals who have noticed changes in the face and neck. This includes concerns such as skin laxity, reduced facial volume, or softening around the jawline and cheeks.

During your consultation, we assess whether this procedure is appropriate for your individual features.

You may be a good candidate if:

  • Your skin still has enough elasticity to support healing

  • You are in good general health

  • You have realistic expectations

  • You understand the limitations and risks of surgery

Psychological Readiness and AHPRA Compliance

Absolute Cosmetic strictly follows the AHPRA guidelines for cosmetic surgery. All facelift patients must complete the following before surgery:

  • Provide a GP referral
  • Complete a Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) screening questionnaire.
  • Attend two consultations (one with Dr. Glenn Murray (MED0001196978) (MED0001196978) and one with a senior member of our clinical team.
  • Observe a mandatory 7-day cooling-off period between your initial consultation and surgery booking.
  • Review and understand all of our educational materials and consent documents.

These steps help ensure you are well-informed and mentally prepared for the procedure.

Health Requirements

    • Before proceeding with facelift surgery, several health-related requirements must be met to support a well-managed procedure and recovery.

      • Smoking or vaping must be ceased at least two weeks before surgery. Nicotine use can affect wound healing and may increase the likelihood of complications. In some cases, the procedure may be postponed or cancelled if nicotine use is detected.

      • Patients should be at or near a stable weight. Significant fluctuations in weight can impact the longevity and symmetry of facelift outcomes.

      • General health must be well-managed. Chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders should be controlled before undergoing surgery. This helps to minimise intraoperative risks and supports recovery.

Pre-Operative Requirements

Blood Tests

  • Blood tests must be completed at least 14 days before your procedure
  • Results are sent directly to the clinic, we will only contact you if the doctor needs to discuss anything further

Medications and Allergies

  • Please inform your doctor of any allergies to medications, latex, Betadine, Chlorhexidine, or adhesives
  • Avoid Aspirin, Nurofen, Vitamin E, fish oil, green tea, and other anti-inflammatories for 10 days before surgery
  • Bring all current medications with you on the day
  • Take one Claratyne tablet the night before surgery (available at chemists or supermarkets)

 

Smoking and Alcohol

  • Smoking or vaping is not permitted for 2 weeks before and 6–8 weeks after your procedure
  • Nicotine use can affect wound healing and increase risks — procedures may be cancelled if smoking is not ceased
  • Minimise alcohol consumption for one week prior

Body Preparation

  • Use an antibacterial Chlorhexidine wash (available at most pharmacies) on the morning of your procedure, including your hair
  • Remove all jewellery and piercings, except wedding rings
  • Remove any fake or gel nails
  • If you have long hair, please tie it back

Fasting

  • You must fast (no food or fluids) for 6 hours before your surgery
  • You may take a small sip of water in the morning to swallow approved medications

Clothing

  • Wear loose, dark, comfortable clothing with buttons or a zip at the front
  • Avoid tight pants, tops, belts, or high heels

Dr Glenn Murray

Background in Facelift Surgery

Dr Glenn Murray is the lead cosmetic doctor at Absolute Cosmetic and has been involved in performing cosmetic procedures, including facelift surgery, for over two decades. He works within a Health Department-licensed Class B Day Hospital and is committed to ongoing education and adherence to current surgical guidelines.

For procedures that require additional surgical guidance or general anaesthesia in a hospital setting, Dr Murray works closely with qualified surgeons and anaesthetists to ensure a coordinated and well-managed approach to patient care. This collaborative model supports consistency and high standards throughout the facelift process.

Qualifications and Ongoing Education

  • Dr Murray holds qualifications in both general and cosmetic medicine. He has completed a range of advanced cosmetic surgery training programs, including live surgery workshops focused on facial procedures. In addition to his clinical practice, he regularly attends national and international conferences and participates in continuing education to stay informed about updates in surgical techniques, patient care standards, and regulatory changes.

GP Referral Requirement

A Required Step Before Consultation

A referral from your General Practitioner (GP) is required before booking a facelift consultation at Absolute Cosmetic. This is part of national cosmetic surgery regulations and ensures that your decision to undergo surgery is supported by an independent medical assessment.

Your GP plays a key role in confirming your general health and identifying any factors that may influence surgical planning or recovery. The referral must be current and note your interest in facelift surgery.

How to get a GP Referral

To get a referral, simply book an appointment with your regular General Practitioner (GP). During your consultation, explain that you’re considering facelift surgery and require a referral for a consultation with Dr Glenn Murray at Absolute Cosmetic.

Your GP may:

  • Review your general health and medical history
  • Ask about your motivations for surgery
  • Provide a written referral addressed to Dr Glenn Murray

Why This Matters

The GP referral process helps support informed decision-making and medical transparency. It also ensures compliance with AHPRA’s requirements for all major cosmetic procedures.

Your GP can help assess whether facelift surgery is suitable for you based on your medical history, current medications, and psychological readiness. Referrals must be emailed to our team or brought to your consultation.

Please note: Your GP may advise against cosmetic surgery if there are health concerns. Their role is to support your well-being and help you make an informed decision.

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Dr. Glenn Murray (MED0001196978) Medical Director | MBBS | FRACGP | MIT AI (Health) Cert. (AHPRA Registration MED0001196978) Registered Medical Practitioner,... Specialist General Practitioner (specialist registration in general practice). General disclaimer: Patient outcomes can vary due to factors such as genetics, diet, age, exercise, lifestyle, weight, and overall health. It’s essential to understand that all invasive surgeries come with inherent risks and require a recovery period and specific care regimen. Detailed information regarding surgical risks and complications is available here, but it is advisable to conduct thorough research and obtain a second opinion to ensure you are able to make an informed decision. Please note that the information provided is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. For real patient images, please visit our Before and After page. Please be advised that surgical outcomes vary, from patient to patient, and comprehensive research is crucial before making any decisions. This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+.

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