If you're reading this, it probably means you or someone you know are considering having a face-lift.
First - congrats! We know you're excited to see the results. Next comes the recovery period.
You have many questions about what to expect and how to care for yourself at home—use this compiled guide to help you navigate your recovery journey smoothly, give Concierge RN a call in Arizona at (480) 490-1757 or Utah at (801) 528-9080, and also consider purchasing our E-book Facelift Essentials. It was specifically written for the patient and their caregivers.
What To Expect
Caring For Your Incisions
Those first days after your face-lift, you'll likely have some type of bandage, stitches or staples.. It is very important to leave things as they are, even when the bandage becomes tight and uncomfortable with swelling. We know it's tempting, but leave things alone leaving sutures and bandages undisturbed unless directed by your surgeon. Follow your surgeon's instructions for changing dressings and cleaning the sutures. They'll remove any non-dissolving sutures or staples 5-10 days after surgery.
You may also have a drain or two to remove excess fluid. Carefully monitor the drain and record the output as directed. Don't worry about bruising or swelling - it will subside more and more each day after the first 3-5 days. Keep incisions clean to prevent infection. Be gentle when washing your face and only use what your surgeon has prescribed.
Easing Discomfort
It's normal to have some discomfort, numbness, and tightness for several days after your procedure. Your doctor will prescribe medication to keep you comfortable. Be diligent about taking it on schedule, especially the first few days. This strategy helps with proper healing. Make sure to eat a few bites of something with your pain medications as well as your antibiotic.
Often, extra strength Tylenol or acetaminophen is sufficient for the discomfort you will experience, but everyone tolerates their pain differently.
Fortunately, facelifts are generally not the most uncomfortable cosmetic procedure men and women have done.
Proper head elevation is also vital for reducing swelling. Sleep propped up on pillows for at least a week but two weeks is ideal, or as instructed by your surgeon. Apply cold compresses to eyes with surgeon approval of course, to ease discomfort and swelling that comes with having a blepharoplasty, which is often an added procedure performed with face lifts. The facial numbness may last several weeks or months - that's normal as the nerves heal.
How Can You Care for Yourself At Home?
Rest and Take It Easy
Your body needs time and rest to recover, so take it easy after your long awaited face lift! Listen to your surgeon's advice on activity limitations. Get lots of sleep and relax as much as possible. Avoid anything strenuous for at least 2-3 weeks - no heavy housework, exercise, sex, etc. You must avoid overdoing it when you start feeling good again. Around days 5-7 you will finally start feeling human again and begin getting bored with your binge television watching and reading material and do too much, but trust me when I say, you will pay for it the next day with increased pain, swelling and physical exhaustion.
Start with gentle, short indoor walks and slowly increase your activity. Only drive or return to work once your doctor says it's okay. And avoid getting overheated or sunburned! Ease back into your routine gradually. Pushing yourself too hard can delay healing.
Keep Your Head Comfortably Raised
Here's an essential tip for reducing post-op swelling:
Keep your head elevated, especially when sleeping.
Prop yourself up with a stack of pillows, use a “Wedge Pillow” or sleep in a recliner.
Try to keep your head above your heart.
This strategy will keep swelling to a minimum which also minimizes discomfort. It may feel weird initially, but patients say it makes a huge difference in their recovery! The first week is when it's most critical to stay propped up. You can lower your head a bit each day as the swelling subsides. But as a general rule of thumb, your surgeon will want you to continue sleeping at a 30-45 degree angle for at least 2-3 weeks.
Monitor Changes in Sensation
Numbness, tingling, and tightness are regular sensory changes after a facial procedure. But call your doctor if you have intense, sudden pain or swelling as that may indicate hematoma. Trouble swallowing or breathing is an emergency you must speak to your surgeon about immediately or have someone drive you to the emergency room. Also, let your surgeon know if numb areas feel extremely firm and hard or if you have color changes, as that could mean impaired blood flow.
As sensation returns over the next few weeks, you may feel itching, stinging, or odd sensations. This feeling is simply nerves regenerating. Massage the area gently to relieve discomfort. In a few months, numbness should subside. Report any significant changes in sensation to your doctor.
External Help
Diet - Nourish Your Body to Heal
In the first few days after surgery, go easy on your digestive system with soft, mild foods. Try soups, low sugar juices and electrolyte drinks, yogurt, applesauce, eggs, and mashed potatoes. Protein intake is of utmost importance for healing during this critical time. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. For more information on specific amounts of protein, fluids and recipes created specifically for those recovering from a face lift, purchase your “Facelift Essentials” book from Amazon or an electronic version from our website.
Your bowel movements may be irregular at first—that's normal. Stick to high-fiber foods and make sure to take a stool softener while you are taking narcotics to avoid constipation and straining. If you still haven't had a bowel movement after taking a stool softener for a few days, Miralax and Magnesium Citrate should be nearby. I consider those the “Big Guns”.
Listen to your body and go slow with food early on. Adequate nutrition provides the fuel your body needs to repair itself.
Medications - Take as Directed
Follow your doctor's instructions closely regarding restarting your usual medications and any new prescriptions.
If you stopped a blood thinner pre-op, ask when to resume it. Use prescription pain medicine only as directed. Over-the-counter meds like acetaminophen are another option for pain if approved by your provider. It is key to take your pain medications, whether prescribed or over the counter, on a regular schedule for the first 48 hours even though they are usually prescribed “as needed”.
Finish any prescribed antibiotics—don't stop taking them early, even if you feel better. Always take pain meds and antibiotics with food so they have less chance of upsetting your stomach. Talk to your doctor about other options if side effects persist.
Keep It Clean
Keep your sheets, clothing and pillow cases clean. Only use the solutions or facial wash the surgeon provides for you. Do not apply hydrogen peroxide or alcohol on your incisions since these can slow the healing process.
Avoid ointments or lotions on the incision unless prescribed by your surgeon. Keep the area clean and watch for infection symptoms like increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness. Call your doctor if you meet this situation.
Follow Up Is Critical
Attend every recommended follow-up appointment and check in with your care team if any worries arise. Track your symptoms and document your progress.
Know what to watch for and when to seek help—don't downplay anything that seems off. Stay on top of test results and medication instructions so you understand your treatment plan. This is where having Concierge-RN come in to assist you with your recovery for the first 3-5 days can give you peace of mind knowing that if any problems arise, they will know what to do and how to respond appropriately and swiftly.
Speak up about pain, side effects, or any recovery frustrations. Your medical team wants to help you heal optimally. Don't tough it out alone—you've got this!
When to Call for Help
Call 911 for emergencies like trouble breathing, swallowing, chest pain, fainting, or coughing up blood.
Notify your doctor immediately for things like uncontrolled pain, incision opening, bleeding, fever, increased swelling/redness, pus-like drainage, leg swelling or pain, dizziness, or other concerning symptoms.
