Recovery Tips for Facelift Surgery Patients
To fight the signs of aging, there are plenty of things you can do: eat right, exercise, hydrate, and protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. That can only go so far, however. Sometimes what people really need is the trained hand of a cosmetic surgeon who can subtly improve overall appearance. Many people have visited our plastic surgery center in Minneapolis in order to undergo facelift surgery, which helps remove wrinkles and reduce sagging and drooping of the skin.
Of course, the best results from surgery come when patients follow our post-operative instructions to the letter. We'd like to take a few moments right now to look at some tips for recovery following a facelift so prospective patients understand what they can expect.
The Facelift Procedure
During a facelift, incisions are made around the backs of the ears and the lower portion of the hairline. Through these incisions, excess skin tissue is removed and underlying structures are adjusted. The skin is pulled tighter to reduce wrinkles and improve overall appearance.
What to Expect the First Days After Facelift Surgery
During the first day after facelift surgery, it's important that you get rest and stay well hydrated. Do not touch or disturb the bandages or drainage tubes in place as this can adversely affect healing. While soreness and discomfort are common, they can generally be addressed through the use of pain medications that we will recommend/prescribe at our plastic surgery center in Edina, MN. In this first day or so, be sure to have a friend of family member with you to help around thee home and make sure you're okay.
Rather than lying down when you sleep, we recommend that patients sleep in an elevated position, with the head and back at an incline rather than flat. This helps promote blood circulation in those critical first days after surgery.
What to Avoid While Recovering from Facelift Surgery
There are a couple things that patients need to keep in mind while they are recovering in order to ensure good results.
- Patients should avoid washing their hair for at least two days after facelift surgery
- Hot showers should be avoided for several days; water should instead be warm
- Patients should be up and walking the next day after surgery to help promote circulation and prevent blood clots
- Avoid all heavy lifting and bending over until your surgeon tells you it is okay
- Saunas and steam rooms need to be avoided until your surgeon advises otherwise
- Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking before surgery and in the weeks after until you are fully healed
What to Expect in the Weeks After Facelift Surgery
In the weeks following your Minneapolis facelift, you will be able to return to normal activities. You will return to the practice for several follow-up visits to ensure that your healing is progressing properly. If you should have any concerns as you recover from surgery, feel free to contact the practice so that these matters can be addressed as soon as possible.
Other Options for Facial Rejuvenation
In addition to facelift surgery, many people have been turning to non-surgical treatment and skin care options in order to enhance their appearance. Some find these procedures preferable since they do not require as much downtime as traditional facial plastic surgery. We can discuss all of these matters with you in greater detail during your consultation.
Learn More About Facial Rejuvenation Surgery
For more information about facial plastic surgery options and how you caan achieve total facial rejuvenation, be sure to contact our cosmetic surgery center in Edina, MN today. Our entire team looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you make the best possible decisions regarding your appearance and its enhancement.
