Let’s get you ready to face new challenges after that dream procedure. A facelift can give you back confidence, a youthful look, and an improved sense of comfort within your own skin. And if you want to take care of your results and enjoy them for longer, proper and careful recovery is essential.
A facelift is a transformative procedure that helps restore a more youthful appearance by tightening the skin and underlying tissues. While the surgery itself is an important step, the recovery process plays a crucial role in achieving optimal results.
Dr. Joseph Fodero will make sure not only to perform the best procedure, but also guide you with the best key post-operative tips for a smooth healing journey.
The Timeline for Your Facelift Recovery
The First 48 Hours
While the complexity of your facelift can vary, it is mostly done as an outpatient procedure. However, during the first two days, you can expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort.
Your surgeon will place bandages around your face to help control swelling, and small drainage tubes might even be used to prevent fluid buildup. During these crucial hours, you must rest, keep your head elevated, and carefully follow your pain medication schedule.
The First Week
At some point during your first week after surgery, bruising and swelling will reach their peak, and then improve over the course of the next few days. You can use cold compresses to help with inflammation, and should avoid any kind of strenuous physical activity.
Your surgeon will probably make an appointment during this period to remove your stitches and schedule follow-up consultations.
Weeks 2-4
Your symptoms and discomfort will become more manageable and you can slowly start returning to your normal activities. In some cases, patients return to work during this period, but you must follow-up with your surgeon your specific instructions. They will also advise you on the best skin and scar care routines. Remember to still avoid sun exposure and/or heavy exercise.
The First Trimester
Swelling eventually fades away and your results become more visible. You will most likely enjoy clear changes in skin tightness, contour, and harmony. In the majority of cases, by the end of the third month, the healing process is complete and you can return to all activities, including exercise.
Nonetheless, remember that follow-up appointments are key for assessing your progress and making important changes into your routine.
3-6 Months and Moving Forward
Your complete facelift results can be completely seen and enjoyed around six months post-surgery. If you want to maintain your results for years to come, make sure to fully incorporate proper skincare, sun protection, and a healthy lifestyle in your day to day.
Some patients may choose to undergo complementary treatments such as laser resurfacing or injectables to enhance and prolong their facelift results.
6 Tips to Enhance Your Recovery
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Besides following the specific guidelines your surgeon provides, you can ensure your proper facelift healing by:
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And of course, if at any point you experience excessive pain, increased redness, signs of infection, don’t hesitate to contact your surgeon.
Common Questions About Facelift Recovery
How Painful is Facelift Recovery?
In our experience, most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort. Your surgeon will prescribe you with pain medication according to your procedure and medical history. The pain starts to become significantly more manageable after the first week post-surgery.
When Can I Return to Work?
Depending on your job’s nature, your surgeon will proceed differently. Many patients with desk jobs return to work within 10 or 14 days. However, if your job requires physical efforts, your provider can either advise for additional recovery time or gradual return to activities.
How Can I Reduce Swelling and Bruising?
Make sure to keep your head elevated and not make any sudden movements, apply cold compresses, and follow a low-sodium diet.
Will My Scars Be Noticeable?
Dr. Fodero is an expert in strategically placing incisions in discreet areas, like behind the ears and/or along the hairline. While you might notice them during the first recovery periods, with proper care and time, they will significantly fade away.
When Can I Wear Makeup Again?
Your surgeon will advise you on what skincare and makeup products you can use during your follow-up appointments. However, most patients start wearing makeup at least two weeks after surgery.
How Long Do Facelift Results Last?
Depending on your age, skin elasticity and overall quality, lifestyle, maintenance treatments, and specific procedures done, results can last from 10 to 15 years.
Comprehensive Facelift Procedures at Our New Jersey Practice
Recovery is a long but nourishing journey. Make sure to trust your body and you will be enjoying your results sooner than you expect. By taking care of yourself, you will be ensuring that what went down at the O.R. goes way beyond its doors.
At Northeastern Plastic Surgery, we have a skilled and friendly staff that’s ready to take care of you during your facelift recovery path. We will always take the time to get to know your needs and concerns.
Enjoy being you like never before and make an appointment at our New Jersey practice by calling (973) 295-6565 or using our online scheduling tool.