How do you avoid complications after a facelift?

The time after a facelift

Below we give you an overview of the most important phases after a facelift, from swelling and bruising to when you can return to normal activities.

Week 1

During the first week after a facelift, rest is very important. You will experience varying degrees of swelling and bruising, which peak around day two or three. Painkillers can help manage the discomfort. It is common to have drains and dressings that help reduce fluid build-up. These are usually removed within 7 days.

Week 2

During the second week you can gradually resume more sedentary activities. Most patients find that the majority of the bruising begins to fade, although some swelling may remain. During this week the stitches are usually removed, provided no complications have arisen after the facelift. You should continue to avoid strenuous activities.

Weeks 3–4

The swelling continues to go down, and you can begin to see more of the benefits of the surgery. Although the skin may still feel tight or numb, you can now start to resume most of your normal everyday activities. However, you should still avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting to prevent strain on the healing incisions.

After the first month

After a month of proper aftercare following the facelift, you can most likely return fully to your usual routines, including more strenuous exercise. The final results begin to show clearly, although subtle changes may continue to appear throughout the coming year, as the skin and tissues settle into their new contours.

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Common side effects and complications after a facelift

The recovery process and the aftercare of a facelift involve managing several temporary side effects and possible complications.

• Swelling and numbness: It is normal for the face to feel puffy or numb. Sleeping with your head elevated and using cool compresses can help manage the swelling.
• Bruising: Bruising is most prominent during the first week, and then usually fades within a few weeks. Certain medication and gentle massage can help with healing.
• Low energy and low mood: It is common to feel low after surgery, because of the physical strain of the operation and the psychological effect of a changed appearance. Do take support from friends, family or professional counsellors,
• Temporary hair loss: It is possible to experience some hair loss near the incision areas, but this usually disappears within a few months. Discuss it with your surgeon if the hair loss persists.
• Scarring: Scars from a facelift are designed to be well hidden and will mature and become less noticeable over time. Your surgeon may recommend gels and other tips to reduce any problems.
• Pain: Prescription or over-the-counter painkillers can help manage discomfort, which is usually at its worst during the first few days after surgery.
• Stiffness: Gentle facial exercises can help restore flexibility and comfort in the face and around the mouth, in line with your surgeon's recommendations.

Take charge of your aftercare and recovery

For an optimal result, it is important that you take charge of your own recovery and aftercare:

• Exercise and activity: A balance between rest and gentle movement is important. Activities should be reintroduced gradually in line with your surgeon's recommendations.
• Nutrition: A diet rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants promotes the healing of the tissues.
• Medication: It is important to follow your surgeon's prescriptions for all medicines in order to support recovery and prevent complications from the facelift.
• Wound care: Proper incision care minimises the risk of infection and promotes better scar healing. Among other things, it is important to keep the area clean and dry.

Adoreal's tailored support

With Adoreal you get a personalised plan for your facelift and aftercare, to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible result. Our approach is grounded in the fact that every patient's journey is unique, which is exactly why we tailor a plan that addresses all your individual needs and concerns.

Contact Adoreal today for expert advice and to plan your recovery journey with confidence and support from our dedicated team.

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