Tips to Guide Patients Through a Smooth Recovery from Facelift Surgery
Aging affects everyone differently. There is no exact science that can tell patients when they will begin to notice a change in their physical features and it often comes as a surprise when these changes occur. The face, which is usually the first to show signs of aging, may develop wrinkles, deep creases, and looseness of the skin. While some features, such as the cheeks and temples are likely to sink in, others, such as the jowls and chin, are likely to gain volume. A facelift can address a multitude of problems for patients and turn back the clock to lift, smooth, and rejuvenate the facial features. Following a facelift with Dr. Jaime Perez, patients should be prepared for a lengthy recovery. In order to get through this recovery free of complications and with minimal discomfort, we provide our Tampa patients with facelift recovery tips that will encourage healthy healing.
Be Prepared
Preparation is key to a successful facelift recovery. It will be very important to get plenty of rest in the first several days following surgery, so patients should set up a comfortable and well-equipped recovery area prior to going in for facelift surgery. The recovery area should include a comfortable place to rest, lots of pillows so that the head can remain elevated, and easy access to a phone and any necessary medication. It is also a good idea to arrange to have a friend or family member stay with you during the first 24 to 48 hours of recovery.
Limit Activity
It can be difficult for some patients to truly rest and relax, but it is vital to a smooth facelift recovery. Activity should be very limited in the beginning stage of recovery, with movement being limited to brief walks. As recovery progresses, patients can slowly increase activity, but strenuous lifting or exercise should continue to be avoided for at least six weeks after surgery.
Use Cold Compresses
Cold compresses are one of the most useful recovery tools. Cold compresses can help reduce swelling and bruising and can be used as needed to alleviate pain or discomfort. We recommend that patients apply cold compresses for 20 minutes at a time to get their maximum benefits. Whether using a cold compress from the store or something as simple as a frozen bag of vegetables, just make sure that the compress is wrapped in a soft, smooth material that will not disturb the bandages or stitches around the incision area.
Maintain Proper Nutrition
Diet is particularly important following facelift surgery. Nutritious foods that are rich in vitamins can keep the body healthy and may boost the body’s ability to heal. It is also important to stay hydrated, which will help to flush the body of excess fluids and can reduce swelling. Patients should be sure to avoid foods that are high in sodium, which can lead to fluid retention.
Follow Post-surgical Care Instructions
In the case of facelift surgery recovery, the doctor’s word is best. Adhere to all post-surgical care instructions regarding rest, use of medication, bandage care, and follow-up appointments. If there are ever any questions, Dr. Perez or a member of his team will be happy to provide additional information.
Schedule an Appointment
From the first consultation to recovery, Dr. Jaime Perez will ensure that patients are well-cared for throughout their plastic surgery experience. If you are interested in learning more about a facelift to refresh your facial features, or have questions regarding the recovery process, schedule an appointment at your earliest convenience to learn more from Dr. Perez. We look forward to hearing from you!
