Are you considering taking the plunge to renew your youthful appearance with a surgical facelift? With approximately a quarter of a million people having facelifts in the United States each year, you’re not alone!
A facelift performed by triple board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali Sajjadian improves many visible signs of aging caused by stress, sun exposure, and gravity.
While the operation eliminates excess skin and fat, tightens underlying tissues, and re-drapes facial skin, remember you will need to follow specific follow-up instructions to care for your incisions after your facelift.
Proper skin care not only expedites the healing process, but also maintains your long-term facelift benefits. You will receive written instructions from Dr. Sajjadian for recovery care and optimal healing. In addition to these critical steps, here are additional tips to follow to ensure minimal scarring.
Keep the Incision Sites Dry for 24 Hours
Don’t let your incisions get wet for the first 24 hours after your facelift. Skip bathing or taking a shower on the first day, though a sponge bath is typically OK.
Once you get the go-ahead for washing your entire body, it’s better to shower than to soak in a tub. That’s because exposure to water can soften it and cause it to open.
During recovery, don’t put soap or other bath products directly onto your incisions. Instead, after showering, pat the area dry with a clean towel.
Cleanse and Moisturize
In early facelift recovery, your skin will likely feel tender, with some discomfort and tenderness around the incisions. However, this doesn’t mean you should discontinue washing your face. Bacteria build up quickly on unwashed skin, potentially causing infections.
Don’t use alcohol, skin cleansers, iodine, antibacterial soaps, or peroxide. These products can damage the skin inside the wound and slow healing. Also, refrain from using lotions, cream, or herbal products unless you’ve checked with Dr. Sajjadian first.
He will tell you how to wash your wound, starting with a syringe of soapy or saltwater to rinse any signs of pus that’s draining. Next, pat the wound with clean gauze or cloth. Lastly, apply a moisturizer to help reduce visible scarring and keep your skin supple and moist.
Minimize Bruising and Swelling
Your face goes through a considerable amount of trauma during facelift surgery, which means the subsequent bruising and swelling typically get worse before healing begins.
Keep your head elevated to minimize inflammation. Place pillows to prop you up on your bed during sleep and relaxation. Supplements like arnica and bromelain can help minimize bruising, but do not take them without Dr. Sajjadian’s approval. Avoid drugs like aspirin and herbs like garlic, ginseng, and ginkgo because they can thin the blood and cause bleeding.
Wearing Makeup
While you might feel the temptation to conceal bruises, you shouldn’t rush to your makeup bag quite yet. Instead, give your facial incisions at least a week before applying makeup, and remember to wash it off at night.
Avoid Direct Sun Exposure
Protecting your skin from dangerous ultraviolet rays is more critical after a facelift than before. Exposing your incisions to direct sunlight during your recovery can slow down the healing process and you’re your resulting scars darker.
While it’s vital to receive vitamin D daily, excess sun exposure is dangerous. Apply an SPF 30+ sunblock liberally every day before planning to go outside. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and incisions from harmful rays when outdoors.
Keep Your Body Nourished and Hydrated
Staying hydrated is a crucial practice for your skin health, and it helps you heal faster and feel better after a facelift. Consuming water is the best hydration option, though you can also drink caffeine-free herbal tea. Aim for six to eight glasses of water daily to remove toxins and keep your skin pliable and moist.
The first few days during your recovery require you to consume essential proteins and nutrients. Don’t skip meals, and seek out whole and protein-rich foods to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to heal.
Don’t Disturb Incision Wounds
Avoid picking at your skin or healing incision scabs, as doing so may cause infection or visible scarring. Instead, use cocoa butter, vitamin E, or scar gel six weeks after surgery. Gently massaging these into your incision lines will help any scarring fade over time.
Minimize Activities
Don’t strain during your recovery. And instead of rushing into your exercise routine, wait at least two weeks after surgery before engaging in heavy lifting or strenuous activities.
When you restart your workout regimen, don’t overexert yourself. Instead, start gradually and increase your activity levels with each workout.
A Final Thought
Facelifts have changed considerably in the last few decades. Modern surgical techniques and scalpel technology have led to quicker healing and shorter recovery. So, don’t assume the healed scars you might see on your friend or relative represent what you can expect from your facelift today.
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is also essential to achieve optimal cosmetic benefits after your facelift.
Learn More About Facelift Recovery in Newport Beach, CA
If you need more information about a facelift, recovery, and care for your incision wounds, please reach out to triple board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali Sajjadian in Newport Beach, CA. You can book an appointment by calling (949) 515-0550 or schedule a consultation online.