Face Lift Recovery – Do’s & Don’ts

As you get older, the skin becomes saggy and wrinkled. A facelift is a cosmetic procedure that reduces the sagging of the skin on cheeks and jawline. The skin and soft tissue on each side of the face are surgically altered to give the face a natural contour. Excess fat around the neck and ear area is also reshaped to give the patient a youthful look. 

The surgical procedure is only half of what people require. The other half includes following the surgeon’s advice on aftercare. Here are some of the Dos and Don’ts after a cosmetic facelift procedure. 

REFRAIN FROM STRENUOUS ACTIVITY

A facelift may seem like a minor procedure, but it requires delicate care for a good recovery. Have someone around to help you for the first few days when you go home. Wait at least four weeks before going back to your exercise routine. 

TAKE YOUR MEDICATION

Your physician will prescribe something to help with pain, swelling, and possible inflammation. Make sure that you take your medication as prescribed. Contact your physician if you experience irregular swelling, too much pain, abscess, or bleeding. 

AVOID DEHYDRATION

For your skin to heal well, keep it hydrated well. Drink lots of water. Take natural fluids such as yogurt, smoothies, tea, and natural fruit juice. 

WEAR COMFORTABLE CLOTHES

Put on loose-fitting and comfortable clothes during the recovery process. Avoid clothes that cover the face. Avoid clothes that cause tension when you pull them over the face. 

APPLY SUNBLOCK

Avoid direct sunlight since the skin will be sensitive for the first few days. Use SPF sunblock on your skin when going outdoors in the sun. Wear a hat and protective eyewear when going outdoors. 

DO NOT IGNORE YOUR PRE-PROCEDURE PREPARATION

Before having the surgery do not take any medication or herbs that can cause excess bleeding. Go for all the tests, pre-procedure appointments, and follow what your physician recommends. 

DO NOT MANIPULATE YOUR FACE

However painful or swollen your face may feel, avoid applying pressure on it. Do not use ice packs or heat pads without consulting with your physician first. Keep off all makeup until you heal. 

KEEP ELECTRONICS AWAY FOR A WHILE

Avoid using your hairdryer on the hot setting. Heat and air from the drier may cause inflammation and infection. Do not put your phone on your face either. Use it on a loudspeaker. Keep headphones and earphones off your ears. These items may carry disease-causing pathogens that cause infections. 

AVOID WATER MASSES

Do not submerge your face in a water mass. You can clean your face with a little water but avoid large water masses. Do not go swimming, diving, or waterskiing. Avoid baths, hot tubs, spas, and sauna. 

DON’T DO DRUGS

Keep away from all drugs that are not in your prescription. This includes hormone medication and other medication for other ailments. Discuss any medication that you are on with your physician. Do not take alcohol, cigarettes, and any hard drugs for at least a month. 

For more information on cosmetic procedures, visit Houston Cosmetic Surgery Center at our offices in Houston, Texas. You can also call (281) 502-5100 to book an appointment.