You’re ready for the procedure, now let’s review some things about your physical recovery after the facelift.

• You are likely to experience some discomfort after your facelift procedure but will have medications to relieve this.
• You will be wearing facial garments which may feel somewhat tight and restrictive but help reduce swelling and improve your recovery.
• Recovery is typically around two weeks, you can resume a more active lifestyle after four weeks.
• Sutures are removed seven to ten days after surgery.
• You should follow your surgeon’s instructions about showering and bathing, specifically when it’s okay to wash your hair.
• Numbness and muscle stiffness is normal for some time.  Scars, although hidden can take up to a year to fade.
• Remember that although genetics play a role in your physical appearance, a healthy lifestyle with a good diet and exercise can help maintain your beauty. Begin by following a low sodium diet just after your procedure.
• Your facelift will enhance your beauty. To continue the benefits avoid smoking, limit your alcohol intake, and try to reduce stress and sun exposure.

For more information about facelift surgery and recovery please contact us to request a consultation today.

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Where will you be after surgery?

Find a space in your home where you can be comfortable with your head slightly elevated (30-40 degrees) during the early stages of your recovery.  Either plan to use a recliner or prepare your bed with pillows to allow for this.

Who will your support team be?

It is important to have family and/or friends available to support you emotionally and to spoil you by taking care of the little things you may not be able to do for the first few days. Transportation, shopping, child care, cooking and cleaning will need to be delegated to your “support staff”. Find that one friend or family member who will be there to take you to your surgery, bring you home after and be your nurse for the first day or so.  This person will also bring you in for your post-operative appointments.

 Have your environment organized.

Assess your needs for the first week or so of recovery and have any entertainment devices, phones and chargers in place.  Make sure toiletries are easily accessible. You shouldn’t bend down, lift or strain yourself after surgery. Find those movies or books which you’ve been wanting to watch or read. Purchase some bags of frozen peas or ice packs so they are available to help with swelling.

 Food, yes food!

Have soft food ready to go.  Stay away from prepared foods or foods that are high in sodium to prevent swelling.  Avoid alcohol for the days before your surgery. Buy soft foods that are rich in protein, low in sodium and require little preparation like applesauce, oatmeal and soup. Know that as you are resting your face you should enjoy foods which required little or no chewing.

Wait, you smoke? Quit!

The impact of smoking on recovery is very negative. There is a greater chance of complications and your recovery can be slower.  Plus you’re going to look younger and better after your facelift, don’t let smoking add wrinkles to your beautiful result!

 Follow all instructions given to you by your Plastic Surgeon.

Before your surgery there will be a History and Physical appointment wherein your doctor and his staff will give you detailed instructions for your facelift, based on your specific medical needs and health history. Post-operative instructions will be given and should be reviewed with those who are providing your care after surgery.

Fill all your prescriptions. 

Your surgeon will have provided you with prescriptions for your recovery.  Fill them ahead of time so you have them readily available when you get home.

 Stay in contact with your Plastic Surgeon.

He will call after your surgery.  Do not hesitate to ask any questions you might have before the procedure so you will have the knowledge and comfort to make your recovery as stress free as possible. Follow instruction closely and of course return to the office for all appointments.

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