A facelift or rhytidectomy is a common cosmetic procedure that can be helpful in lifting and tightening skin on the face. The result of the facelift is facial skin that looks younger, resulting in an overall youthful appearance. Wrinkles, fine lines, and other such signs of aging are eliminated through a facial lift. The facelift involves a surgery, where incisions are done behind the ear to lift the skin and carry out the procedure. Once the procedure is done, care should be taken to ensure healing.

The following are some of the tips for the facelift recovery process:

  • Once the procedure is done, bandages would be placed on the face. Drainage tubes may be placed to collect any excess fluid. While these tubes may be irritating, they are required to ensure smooth healing.
  • Any medication given by the surgeon needs to be taken as per prescription. Pain-killers are given to provide relief from pain, and antibiotics may be given to prevent infections. Patients must take these medicines without fail.
  • There may be some swelling and tightness in the skin, and this is natural. The patient must rest for a week or two and avoid strenuous activities.
  • Follow-up visits to the doctor are required and are a must. The drainage tubes would be removed in the first visit, and the bandages changed. The doctor will monitor if the healing process is happening smoothly.
  • On completion of a week after the surgery, the pain medication can be stopped. The patient can start light exercises like walking, but must avoid jogging and lifting weights.
  • In case of pain or irritation, an ice pack can be used to get relief. Heat must not be used on the face during this time as it can aggravate symptoms.
  • Throughout this time, while sleeping, the head must be elevated. This ensures the healing happens smoothly. Sleeping on the side must be avoided as it can increase pain.
  • Once two weeks are complete, then the patient can resume normal work and start going to work. However, if the patient’s work involves a lot of physical tasks, then one more week of rest is advisable.
  • Some signs of bruising may still be there after two weeks. Makeup can be used to cover them. Since healing would be proceeding smoothly, the patient can start going out of the house. Tingling in the skin may be experienced. This is normal, but if pain persists, then a visit to the doctor is suggested.
  • A healthy diet is important both before and after the surgery. Fruits and vegetables in the diet help promote healing.
  • Smoking must be strictly avoided. It interferes with the flow of blood and can delay healing.

Within a month of the surgery, healing would be completed, and the patient can resume a normal life as before.