What to Expect After Facelift Surgery and How to Ensure Smooth Healing
If you notice visible signs of aging on your face and neck, you’re likely a candidate for a facelift at RothausMD. There are many questions that come up when considering this procedure such as what happens after a facelift and what is the recovery like? We’ll discuss everything you need to know about what to expect after facelift surgery as well as tips to ensure a smooth experience.
First 48 Hours Post-Op: Rest and Relax
The first two days after your facelift surgery are some of the most important in the recovery process. You’ll likely experience some mild swelling and tightness around your face, but these side effects are completely normal and will ease as your body heals and recovers. Patients go home after surgery wearing a compression head wrap that stays on for the first night. It is then removed the next morning which is typically when patients feel much better. It is important to get rest, stay hydrated and take pain medicine as needed during the first couple of days after facelift surgery.
First Week Post-Operation: Notice the Transformation
As the week progresses and the swelling subsides, you will begin to notice some of the initial changes in your appearance. Your face may still feel a bit tight, but any residual discomfort can be managed with prescribed or over the counter pain medications. You’ll also want to continue to follow Dr. Rothaus’s aftercare instructions and rest. Any stitches that need to come out do so on day four after surgery, and many patients feel well enough at this time to resume social activities and/or work.
First Month and Beyond: Embrace the New You
Within a month, the swelling, bruising, and discomfort should fade, revealing a more youthful, revitalized appearance. However, the delicate tissue under your skin will continue to heal for several months, and you will continue to see improvements over the following year.
Customized Care In New York
RothausMD, situated in New York, NY, believes in delivering personalized care to help meet your unique aesthetic goals. Our knowledgeable and compassionate staff prioritizes your comfort throughout your facelift experience to help you easily navigate through recovery.
Tailored Facelift Solutions at our New York City Office
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Kenneth Rothaus delivers customized facelift solutions tailored to match your aesthetics and health needs. Your customized treatment plan will ensure optimal results and a smooth recovery after facelift surgery. This often includes choosing from one of our various surgical approaches depending on your anatomy and desired result. For our out-of-town patients, we assist with coordinating hotel stays and overnight care for the first evening after surgery.
Practical Tips for Smooth Recovery
Some tips you can follow to ensure you have a smooth recovery include the following:
- Keep your head elevated to manage swelling
- Avoid strenuous physical activities
- Follow a balanced diet to support healing
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Always follow post-surgery instructions from Dr. Rothaus
Take The Next Step With Us and Schedule A Consultation
Ready to discover the many benefits a facelift can offer you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Rothaus today! Call our New York, NY office at 212.737.0770 or fill out our online contact form. Be it a facelift, liposuction, rhinoplasty, or another cosmetic treatment, you can trust our team to help you safely and effectively navigate your recovery and make your aesthetic dreams a reality.