After Face Lift
On you pre-op appointment we will review all the information for post-op care. After your surgery, the nurses will go over the same instructions with the person that will be accompanying you home.
Don't be surprised at the pale, bruised, and puffy face, neck and ears you see. This is normal and will last from 7 to 14 days. Bruising is common and rarely will settle in the neck and even deep into the chest area.
A feeling of tightness, especially in the neck, is frequently experienced. It subsides gradually over the first few months.
There is usually no significant discomfort after surgery; pain medication will be prescribed by Dr. Johnson to lessen any discomfort you may have.
If you have significant pain or swelling, contact Dr. Johnson immediately. This is significant for a hematoma. Although rare, <6% of the time, it may be detrimental to the outcome of the surgery.
Apply ice to reduce swelling and avoid exercise for two weeks as an increase in blood pressure or pulse can increase swelling, bleeding and general discomfort.
Apply Polysporin® twice a day to the incisions. The suture are blue in color.
A facial wrap is applied and ice is placed over the dressing. This dressing is to be worn for the next 72 hours and can be removed after that point to shower. Please keep the incisions water dry and moist only with the Polysporin®. After 72 hours, please wear the facial wrap at night.
Some numbness of the skin and/or ear is quite normal; it will disappear in a few months.
The staples will be removed in 5-7 days.
Your hair may be thin for some time around surgical sites. Two weeks after surgery please apply suncreen SPF 15 or greater to the incision sites for protection. The incision sites may be red for months, this depends on your skin tone.
