While you are recovering from a facelift, it is important to rest and take good care of yourself. Here are some favorite tips to help you heal.
Cool Compress
It is recommended that you apply cool compresses to your eyes and face during the first few days after the procedure. Applying ice or frozen items directly to the skin is not recommended. You may wrap ice packs in a soft cloth or soak soft, white washcloths or squares of gauze in ice water and then wring. These can be applied directly to the eyes and face. No pressure is needed, and should not be used, when applying the compresses. Do not apply the compresses for any longer than 20 minutes at a time. No heat should be applied.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
After your facelift, please keep away from direct exposure to the sun. If you have to be outdoors, make sure you wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Also be sure to wear a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Remember, your skin is healing and damaging sun rays may interfere with the healing process.
Wait Before Applying Makeup
Wearing makeup too soon after surgery can cause infection, worsen scars, or slow the healing process. Any makeup use after the procedure will need to be approved by your physician.
Carefully Take Medications
Aspirin should be avoided in the two weeks before and two weeks after the cosmetic procedure unless your surgeon approves your use of the medication. Any pain-relief medication and/or antibiotics should be taken exactly as prescribed. If you are given a prescription for an antibiotic, make sure to complete the whole duration of the medication.
Avoid Strenuous Activities
Get up and take a walk. This helps keep the blood flowing! Although partaking in very light exercise might be fine after having a facelift, do not participate in any strenuous exercise. Check with your surgeon to make sure light exercise is approved. Also, don’t bend or do any lifting immediately after the cosmetic procedure.
Elevate Your Head When Lying Down
Before you sleep or when you are resting, be sure to keep your head elevated with pillows. The elevation should help drain fluid away from the facial area and reduce swelling.
Showering and Grooming Precautions
Remember to check with your surgeon to see when you can resume normal grooming activities. You likely won’t be able to comb or wash your hair for at least a couple of days after the facelift procedure.
Consume Healthy Whole Foods
It may be somewhat difficult to eat solid foods after you have a facelift, so you may need to purchase some meal replacement shakes to drink while you are in recovery. If you find that you can eat solid foods while you are recovering from the procedure, soft foods may be best. It’s also recommended that in addition of being easy to chew, foods should be easy to digest, too.
