Shop Now: It’s normal to be excited and eager to unveil your facelift results, but you don’t want to cut corners on your recovery and compromise your healing and your results. However, there are ways to expedite healing so you can go back to your normal routines sooner. In this blog post, I cover how to speed up the facelift recovery process.
1. Sleep With Your Head Elevated
How long should you sleep with your head elevated after facelift surgery? Plastic surgeons typically recommend that you sleep with your head elevated for at least 1 to 2 weeks post-surgery. Elevation helps to reduce swelling and promote drainage of excess fluid.
Using a recliner or propping yourself up with pillows at a 30- to 45-degree angle can make a significant difference in your facelift recovery time.
2. Perform Lymphatic Massage
Gently massaging your face after a facelift can help reduce swelling and promote healing. Lymphatic massage is a gentle technique that encourages lymph fluid to move away from the surgical area.
I recommend starting with light, upward strokes from the neck to the ears, using minimal pressure. This can be done a few times a day for the first couple of weeks.
3. Choose the Right Foods
Knowing what to eat after facelift surgery is an often overlooked aspect of recovery. Opt for foods rich in vitamins A and C, such as leafy greens, berries, and citrus fruits, which promote healing. Protein is also essential, so include lean meats, fish, and legumes in your diet. Avoid foods high in salt, as they can cause fluid retention and increase swelling. Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water is equally important for a swift recovery.
4. Approach Exercise With Caution
Exercise after a facelift should be approached carefully. While light walking is encouraged to promote circulation, avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Gradually reintroduce exercise based on your comfort level and your surgeon’s advice.
Remember: don’t push yourself too much, too soon. Overexertion can lead to complications and prolong your facelift recovery.
5. Follow All Postoperative Instructions
Listening to your plastic surgeon’s instructions is paramount for a successful recovery. Get clarification if you need it, and don’t be afraid to reach out if you have any concerns. Your surgeon will prepare you for what to expect, how to navigate recovery, and how frequently you’ll come in for follow-up appointments.
Additional Tips for Recovery
- Manage pain and swelling with cold compresses during the first 48 hours and by taking prescribed medications as directed.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol as they can impair healing and increase the risk of complications.
- Protect your skin by avoiding direct sun exposure, minimizing time in the sun, and using sunscreen every time you go out (regardless of the weather).
How Does Expertise Affect Recovery?
While there are many steps that you can take to optimize your facelift recovery, a good part of the work happens beforehand. Choosing an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facelifts is key to a smooth, safe surgery and optimal outcomes.
For example, I have developed my own “Timeless Face” technique for facelifts that sets my patients up for success from the beginning. General anesthesia introduces greater risk to a procedure and often comes with unpleasant side effects and a longer observation period. By using local anesthesia with oral sedation, I can provide the same level of rejuvenation while allowing patients to start their recovery sooner and more swiftly as a result.
A Great Recovery Starts With a Great Surgeon
Individual healing rates can vary, but the above tips can help you make the most of your downtime. To learn more about the “Timeless Face” procedure and to discuss your facial enhancement options, please request a consultation or call us at (225) 399-0001 to get started.
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