While each patient’s recovery period is different, the majority of the recovery process is universally experienced by everyone receiving a facelift. To fully understand what the time after your procedure will be like, it is crucial that you discuss this stage of your procedure in detail with Dr. Henderson prior to the day of the facelift.
If you are hoping to schedule your facelift prior to a significant life event or date, it is recommended that you discuss this with Dr. Henderson immediately, so that your procedure can be scheduled with plenty of recovery time. You will want your face to be fully healed and looking its best when the big day arrives.
The Recovery Period Immediately After Your Facelift in Scottsdale/Phoenix
Though each procedure is unique, it is very common for patients to be wrapped in a compression garment following the surgery to minimize swelling. In addition, it is very important not to bend over or lie down flat, as keeping the head slightly elevated will also decrease swelling and promote healing. Oral medications may be prescribed for you to treat the resulting pain.
Discomfort should only last a day or two – any more than that and you should promptly contact Dr. Henderson. It is common to use drains in the dressings to help minimize the chances of blood collection under the skin. In general, bruising and swelling will be peaking two days after the procedure and will continue for 10-14 days. Following any specific instructions given by Dr. Henderson will improve your eventual outcome and ensure the quickest, most successful recovery.
Long-Term Scottsdale/Phoenix Facelift Recovery
Continue to avoid bending or lifting for the next several weeks, keeping your head as upright as possible to minimize swelling and improve the results. Sleeping with your head elevated to forty degrees is important for proper healing to occur. Most patients can shower 48 hours following surgery, provided the spray does not hit the incision lines directly – though it is acceptable for the incision lines to become wet. Blow dryers should also be avoided. Most patients can begin driving about a week after the procedure.
Over the next month, you may begin to further recline your sleeping position, laying flat eventually at around six weeks. It is important to still avoid lifting heavy objects during this time. Vigorous physical activity such as swimming, diving or other contact sports should be avoided for at least one month to allow the skin plenty of time to heal completely. Throughout the healing process, it is crucial to avoid makeup until you have been cleared to wear it by Dr. Henderson.
It is important to protect your face from the sun for the months following your procedure. Keep your skin well protected with sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Some mild tingling or numbness in the surgical areas is normal and will go away on its own.
For more information about getting a facelift in Scottsdale/Phoenix, or to schedule a free consultation with Dr. Henderson, please visit the contact page.
Photo by Christopher Walker on Flickr.