After your facelift, expect to come home with some swelling, bruising and tenderness.
While these symptoms are typically manageable and will gradually improve as your body heals, there are a few things you can do to reduce swelling and bruising after facelift surgery.
-
Keep Your Head Elevated
Try to keep your head elevated as much as possible in the first few days after your facial plastic surgery to reduce swelling. Some people find that sleeping in a recliner or propped up on several pillows in bed are comfortable ways to stay elevated and get some much-needed rest.
-
Use Cold Compresses
You can use cold compresses to reduce swelling and make you feel more comfortable. Never apply ice directly to your skin. Instead, place a towel or other soft barrier in between. Ask your plastic surgeon how long you should apply cold compresses. The general rule of thumb is no more than 20 minutes at a time.
Do not apply heat to swollen areas, since heat increases blood flow and swelling.
-
Get Enough Rest
Your body needs time to rest and recover, so take it easy in the first days after your facelift. When you’re feeling up to it, walking around the house can help to promote good circulation and healing, but don’t overdo physical activity at this stage of recovery.
-
Follow Your Plastic Surgeon’s Instructions
Your plastic surgeon should send you home with specific instructions about bandages, wearing a supportive compression garment, physical activity limitations, which medications and supplements to avoid and more. Follow these guidelines as closely as possible to maximize healing and your final facelift results.