You did it! You took the plunge and booked that facelift you've been dreaming about.
Now it's time to focus on taking good care of yourself during recovery so you can heal quickly and enjoy your new look.
Planning ahead is key to a smooth recovery. Putting together a well-stocked post-op kit is one of the best ways to set yourself up for success during your recovery. Visit our Post Op shop on the website to purchase all your essential supplies from one place. This strategy ensures you won't have to scramble around or struggle to get what you need.
In this post, we'll review everything to include in your facelift recovery kit!
Supplies for Comfort and Convenience
After surgery, you'll want items on hand that keep you comfortable and make simple tasks less of a chore. Here are some must-haves:
Remember the Wedge Pillow!
That wedge-shaped pillow you see everywhere but have yet to buy? Now's the time! Elevating your upper body is essential after a facelift to minimize facial swelling and to keep you at the perfect angle. A wedge pillow gives you the right angle to sleep and lounge with your head and back supported. Look for one made of firm foam with a gradual slope, preferably with a removal cover that can be laundered.
Extend Your Reach with a Grabber
Bending over or reaching down after a facelift is a no no; for at least the first 2 weeks. Save yourself some trouble with this little helper : the long-handled grabber! This handy pick-up tool lets you snag items from the floor or low shelves without risking increased facial pressure. Our patients have found this to be a total life saver!
Lanyard for Drain Comfort
Another strong suggestion by our former patients. If your facelift involves surgical drains, keeping them secure will be a priority. Drain lanyards allow you to comfortably secure your JP drains so they don't get tangled or tugged, especially while showering and sleeping. See our suggested lanyard on the postop shop found on our website.
Ease Aches and Pains
While most patients don’t have severe pain after surgery, some discomfort is normal. Have these on hand to help manage post-op soreness and other unsavory side effects:
Stool Softener = Lifesaver!
Pain meds and anesthesia will slow down the gut. A stool softener is not an option, it is mandatory It will help you stay more regular and hopefully avoid constipation. As a backup to the stool softener, I always recommend also having Magnesium Citrate or Miralax. You should never strain when you have had a facelift. It will increase the pressure in your face which can increase bleeding. Proactively taking the step of buying a stool softener will help prevent the possibility of constipation post surgery. You should begin taking it as soon as you get home and start your recovery.
Tylenol for Mild Discomfort
For general aches and pains, over-the-counter Extra Strength Tylenol is usually recommended. Your concierge nurse can assist you with creating a medication schedule that transitions you off your prescription pain medication when the time is right. Having some on hand gives you options for managing discomfort when it may be too soon to take your prescription or you're simply ready to be more clear headed. Please discuss the appropriate maximum daily amount of acetaminophen with your surgeon or pharmacist.
Focus on Healing and Hygiene
Optimal healing relies on good nutrition, staying hydrated and keeping your incisions clean and dry. Consider stocking up on these supplies:
Zipfizz - Flavored Hydration in a Packet
Drinking tons of water after surgery is non-negotiable. Zipfizz lets you add tasty electrolytes and vitamins to your water, something you need for proper hydration. Think of it like a portable Gatorade without sugar.
Soft Gauze Pads for Incision Care and cleaning
Gauze pads will serve you well for cleansing incisions, ice water baths needed for your eyes after a blepharoplasty, applying ointments, and other wound care tasks. Four-by-four non-woven pads or round makeup removal pads are ideal - stock up on a few packs.
Sip Easier with Bendy Straws
Drinking with bandages and swelling can be frustrating. Bendable straws let you position them just right for sipping fluids more comfortably if your surgeon allows you to drink with a straw.
Baby Shampoo for Hair and Wound Care
Tear-free, gentle baby shampoo is the way to go for keeping hair and incisions clean if you are allowed to bathe or wash your hair. Dry shampoo is good for when it’s too soon to bathe.
Extra Recovery Essentials
Here are a few more things to consider adding to your kit:
Loose, comfy button-up tops or gowns for dressing changes
small Ice packs for eye swelling.
Arnica gel for bruises
Arnica pellets to take orally which can minimize bruising time
Healthy, soft, low sodium, high protein tasty snacks to take with your pain medication to prevent nausea.
Body pillow for lounging comfort
Lip balm
Soft, easy to eat foods that are high in protein and low in sodium to provide essential nutrients for optimal healing.
And, of course, patience for yourself and your body! Healing takes time.
