Your Facelift Recovery

If you have a facelift procedure scheduled, or if you are just considering it at this point, you should know that there will be some time needed for recovery afterward and there will be some side effects. One of the most common (albeit temporary) side effects of a facelift is swelling – read on for some information on dealing with this problem.

What Happens During a Facelift?

A facelift is performed with local anesthesia and a sedative, so that you will not feel any pain, but you will be relaxed and awake. It can take several hours – fat is trimmed or removed, the underlying muscles are tightened, and excess skin is trimmed and sutured back into place. Your head will be wrapped in bandages to minimize bruising and swelling.

You may be given prescription medication to control any discomfort, and your skin may be numb. This is normal and will go away after a few weeks. You should rest and relax for at least a week after the procedure, but you should be able to get up and move around within a day or two.

What Can You Do About Facelift Swelling?

Swelling after a facelift procedure is very common, but it can be uncomfortable, and it can also be discouraging when you are anxious to see the results of your surgery. The amount of swelling you have can depend on factors such as your overall health and the type of facelift performed. You should make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery, and to reduce swelling try:

• Avoiding excess sodium
• Drinking lots of water
• Applying cold compresses
• Keeping your head elevated, including while sleeping
• Avoiding bending over
• Avoiding activity that may make you become overheated

Your skin may also feel dry after your facelift. You should use a moisturizer, and make sure to wear sunscreen when you go outside.

A facelift procedure will give you a youthful, rejuvenated, refreshed look, although you will need to take some time to recover. Contact the Weinstein Plastic Surgery Center in Chester, New Jersey, to discuss what a facelift can do for you. Call (908) 879-2222 for an appointment today!

Posted in facelift on February 28th, 2023

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