Healing Quickly After A Facelift

A facelift is a surgical procedure that works to tighten skin from the face and neck, providing the patient with a more fresh and youthful appearance. Though every surgical patient recovers in a different way with varied healing times, there are a few things patients can do to hasten the recovery period post facelift. Factors that go into the recovery time include the patients age, present infections and their general state of health. In this article, we will offer up a few tips to help you make your recovery period as quick and easy as possible.

Step 1 - Keep in touch with your surgeon. Be sure to attend all post-operation appointments, keeping your bandages in place until it is deemed appropriate to remove them. Patients who choose to remove their bandages before their initial post-operative appointment put themselves at risk for infection and bleeding, resulting in an increased recovery period. 

Step 2 - If you've been looking for a reason to quit smoking, here it is. If you are a smoker, ask your physician to recommend an approved cessation method prior to your surgical date. Smoking works to impede circulation and will delay the healing process. Patients who choose to quit smoking before their surgical date will benefit from a faster recovery rate. And it's not just cigarettes; Patients should take care to avoid all nicotine products, including chewing tobacco, cigars, nicotine patches and gums. If possible, patients should try to stay clear of second hand smoke as well, as the nicotine exposure can ultimately delay wound healing as well. 

Step 3 - Make sure to take any pain medication that your surgeon prescribes. As with most surgical procedures, a facelift will result in a fair amount of post-operation discomfort. Pain meds will help ease the pain, while also working to reduce excess swelling and bruising. Patients should be sure only to take medications that have been cleared by their doctor, as specific medication types, such as aspirin can result in excess bleeding. 

Step 4 - Stock up on pillows. Whether you decide to spend your recovery on the couch or in bed, be sure to prop yourself up with a mass of pillows to help reduce any swelling resulting from the procedure. Without the proper support, fluids will make their way into the patient's facial structures, resulting in additional swelling and added recovery time. 

Step 5 - Eat healthy. Diets that consist largely of veggies, fruits, minerals and vitamins will aid in a faster recovery period. Make sure your diet includes lean protein and plenty of Vitamin C to help your wounds heal quickly. Discuss your diet with your surgeon and have them help you plan out a healthy meal plan. If you lack an appetite due to the pain medications, your physician should be able to provide you with a variety of supplements to help you through. 

Step 6 - Stay relaxed and indoors. Clear your schedule for a while and use the time as an opportunity to catch up on movies you missed. You'll be out and about before you know it.