What to do when you go home after a Facelift

Will I be in a lot of pain after surgery?

There isn't usually significant discomfort after this procedure.

Following the operation, you may experience some bruising and swelling around the area and you may be asked to keep your head elevated for a couple of days to keep any swelling down.

Any drainage tube will normally be removed after a day or two and bandages are removed after 1-5 days.

Will my face feel numb?

Some skin numbness is quite normal. Normal feeling will return over time, in a few weeks or months after your facial surgery.

When will my stitches be removed?

Most of the stitches from your facial plastic surgery will be removed after about five days. Your scalp may take longer to heal, so the stitches or clips in your hairline may be left in a little longer.

What about bathing?

You should be able to shower and shampoo your hair within five days, or as soon as the bandage is removed.

When can I become active again?

You can resume most normal activities after three weeks and begin exercise after six weeks.

How else can I promote my recovery?

To help promote your recovery, it's important that you:

• Keep your head elevated for a couple of days to reduce swelling.
• Don't bend or strain.
• Don't expose your face to the sun for a few weeks.
• Don't use a sauna, a steam bath or have a massage for at least two weeks.
• Avoid alcohol.

When can I return to work?

Most patients are back to work after three weeks.

How can I prepare at home before surgery?

• Unless you have someone who can cook for you, you should shop for food and treats such as prepared meals, frozen dinners, puddings and such. You can also cook a few meals ahead of time and freeze portions.
• Instead of heavy 2-litre bottles, buy bendable straws and canned drinks.
• Clean your house - or have it cleaned. You are not going to be up to housecleaning for at least a few days after your surgery, and probably longer.
• Take out the rubbish, recycling, etc. so you don't have to worry about it when you get home after your procedure.
• Do all your laundry and change the sheets on the bed.
• Make a "Things to Do" list (pay bills, change thermostat settings, errands, feed the pets, whatever) to remind your significant other what needs to be done.

• Purchase all of your medications, vitamins and bandages beforehand so that you have them ready.
• Place all medications either in a weekly pill case or in labelled containers. Mark the containers with the day and time you need to take them.
• Ask a friend or neighbour to look after your pet until you're on your feet again.
• Have a table by your bed or reclining chair prepared with all of your medications, ample light, bottled water, a few packages of crackers, remote control (with new batteries!) and your phone.
• Have a night light set up so you don't fall during late night bathroom trips. Medications can make you disoriented.
• Get some extra blankets, since you may get the chills after surgery.
• Place anything you usually need on a daily basis at hip level or on counters so that you don't have to reach up or bend down. This means canned and dry goods in the kitchen and toiletries in the bathroom.
• Have your dressing gown and slippers nearby. Get slippers with non-slip soles, since you will be a bit unsteady on your feet for a few days.
• Have a few comfortable oversized shirts that open from the front on hand, as well as some loose elastic or drawstring sweat pants or pyjama bottoms.
• You may want "black out" shades or curtains at your windows so that when you do get to sleep - regardless of the hours - you can stay asleep.
• If you think television, video games, or reading are eventually going to bore you or stress your eyes, have a CD or tape player on hand with your favourite relaxing music.
• Put crockery, cups and other frequently used items in low, easy-to-reach places.
• Have lots of pillows on hand.

What if something goes wrong?

Contact your surgeon immediately if you:

• Experience shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heart beats.
• Notice any signs of infection.
• Experience bleeding.
• Experience a sudden increase in pain.

Find out more

Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.

If you would like to find out more about facelift surgery or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.