There are multiple reasons to undergo a facelift cosmetic procedure.
Facelifts help combat the signs of aging and improve some of the most apparent skin problems, like unwanted wrinkles and sagging skin. As we age, our bodies stop producing collagen – and the effects of that are visible from around the age of 40.
This procedure lifts and pulls the skin back on your face to create a smoother appearance, tightening skin and redefining lines.
If you are planning on undergoing a facelift and you would like more information on the expected recovery, read on for five of the top tips to improve your healing time:
- Keep Your Head Elevated
Swelling is one of the most common post-operative occurrences after a facelift.
While there is no way to guarantee zero swelling, there are measures you can take to minimize swelling and reduce your overall recovery time.
Keep your head elevated by propping it up to at least 30 degrees while resting and sleeping. That elevation helps to avoid fluid retention and swelling. If possible, sit in a recliner while resting – if you do not have one then pillows work too.
Swelling generally peaks by the third day after the procedure, so plan to keep your head elevated for around a week post-op.
- Avoid Alcohol and Certain Medications
Your surgeon will be able to provide you with a complete list of things to avoid after your procedure, including certain medications that need to get avoided where possible.
Blood thinners need to get stopped before and after any surgical procedure including facelifts and cosmetic dental surgery.
Avoid alcohol for the first two weeks after your facelift to give your body the best chance of a speedy recovery. Alcohol dilates blood vessels and increases the chance of bleeding and bruising post-surgery.
Only take medications approved by your plastic surgeon.
- Rest
Rest is essential during your recovery period.
Increased activity increases blood flow, and even something as seemingly insignificant as frequently turning your head can negatively affect your healing.
Avoid heavy lifting, exercise, and strenuous activities for four weeks.
For more information on post-operative healing times, consult Dr. Brandon Ball, facelift surgeon for helpful advice and guidance.
- Avoid Sunlight
During your recovery, you must avoid excessive sun exposure. After a procedure of this nature, your skin will be more sensitive and susceptible to burning in the sun.
If you cannot avoid the sun, ensure you liberally apply sunscreen with a high SPF. This step should not only apply to your initial recovery period but is necessary to prevent skin damage, so implement this step as part of your daily skincare routine.
- Keep The Incisions Clean
While it is generally okay to resume showers on the second day after your procedure, you must stick to mild shampoos and soaps while your incisions are still healing.
Use a soapy water solution or saline and gently dab at the incisions to keep them clean. Clean wounds heal quicker, and they are less susceptible to infections.
In Conclusion
Facelifts can do wonders for your self-esteem and help you feel comfortable in your skin. While they are not painless, they are worth it.
Hopefully, this guide can help you to navigate your facelift recovery, and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your surgeon for additional information.