Facelift Healing Timeline
The top reason that patients opt for a facelift cosmetic surgical procedure is to look younger and more refreshed. Such a procedure is designed to remove the signs of aging from around the face, neck, and chin. Given that the face is perhaps the most important feature of the body, it should come as no surprise that patients will be eager to show off their new and improved face to friends and family. However, the staff at Jefferson Plastic Surgery cautions that patients will need to give themselves proper time to fully heal in order to get the best results from their facelift procedure. Below is an expected timeline for healing from a facelift procedure.
One to Two Weeks
The first one to two weeks following a facelift procedure are the most crucial periods for healing. The incisions will start to heal over during this time, so it is particularly important to not let them get infected. Wash hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap before changing any dressings or bandages. Do not touch the incisions until they have fully healed.
Additionally, most of the bruising and swelling will happen during these two weeks. Both are actually a natural part of the body healing itself, and are part of the body’s natural attempt to heal by protecting itself from any injury or cut to the skin. Using ice and cold compresses, as well as taking the herb arnica montana, will reduce bruising and swelling
Three to Four Weeks
At this point, any sutures or surgical staples will be removed. The incision line will appear to be slightly pink or reddish. This can easily be hidden with makeup. Using silicone sheeting over the scars will help them to flatten out, making them less obvious.
Patients should also be able to resume normal daily activities, such as driving or going back to work. However, it is crucial for patients to avoid excess sun exposure as much as possible, as this may dry out the face and lead to excessive scarring. A sunscreen with a high SPF (sun protection factor) should be applied to the face and neck before going outside.
Five Weeks and Beyond
At the one-month point after surgery, the facial features will have settled into their final appearance. Any tightness should be gone, and the scars from the incisions should be minimal. However, the face is still vulnerable, and patients should avoid excessive sun exposure. Patients may also notice some residual itching or numbness around the incision area. This is also part of the healing process, as the body attempts to reconnect the nerve pathways that were severed during the surgery.
As frustrating as it may seem, it is crucial that patients give their bodies the time they need to heal following a facelift procedure. Doing so will ensure good results that patients will be proud to show off. Those patients who are committed to improving their appearance will see the results pay off with a face that looks young and rejuvenated.