Tag: facelift recovery

Tips for a Smooth Recovery after Facelift Surgery
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Tips for a Smooth Recovery after Facelift Surgery

Day by Day Recovery after Facelift Surgery – What to Expect after a Facelift

A Facelift is one of the most effective procedures that can completely revive your appearance. Patients choose the procedure to look more bright, rejuvenated and have a better facial contour. If you choose the right plastic surgeon who is experienced and well trained, the chances are you will get good results. However, the surgery itself isn’t the only thing you need to consider. Post-surgery, is the recovery period which is almost as important as the procedure itself if you want to achieve the desired results. With the right information and preparation, you will be able to recover quickly and smoothly and avoid surgical complications.

Dr Hunt and Dr Maryam offer their patients in Sydney and Wollongong NSW the full spectrum of facial rejuvenation surgery. Your surgeon and nurses will thoroughly explain what you should do and what to avoid to have a smooth recovery.

The Day of the Facelift Surgery

The facelift surgery is performed under general anaesthesia, so you will feel no pain or discomfort during the surgical intervention. However, it is common to feel groggy when you wake up, due to the effects of the anaesthesia. You will be on pain medication that will help you feel more comfortable after the surgery.

Swelling and bruising are common side effects of any surgical procedure, so these are expected after the facelift too. At the same time, a tight sensation might also be present. You won’t be able to see the results immediately after the procedure is performed. The swelling and bruising will take some time to subside before you see a major improvement in your face.

Although some patients are a day surgery, most patients are asked to stay a day or two in the hospital. Make sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery. You won’t be able or allowed to drive yourself due to the effects of anaesthesia and bandages wrapped on your face.

Make sure to take all the medications prescribed by your surgeon. They will help you manage post-operative pain, avoid infections and have an overall smooth recovery. What medication works for you might not work with another patient and vice versa. Avoid taking any over-the-counter drugs at any point during the recovery phase unless instructed.

 

Recovery after Facelift – The First Few Days at Home

During the first few days post-facelift surgery, you might experience a certain level of discomfort, but no significant pain, provided that you are taking your meds regularly. The swelling and bruising is usually present at this point, this is a normal occurrence and to be expected. Do not expect to see the outcome of the surgery during this initial phase of recovery. The swelling might be more pronounced on one side than the other. Your facial muscles and skin have been injured in the process. Your skin needs time and rest to heal and recover.

At this point, it is a good idea to be patient and relaxed. It is helpful to have someone to support you around the house. Make sure to get off the bed and move gently around the house as soon as possible. Do not walk at a fast pace though as it can do more harm than good. Stay clear of strenuous activities like jogging, weight lifting, and other forms of physical exercise for at least a month after getting a facelift. If you have drainage tubes in place, you will be asked to come in for a follow-up visit during the first week to get them removed.

Recovery after Facelift – One Week Post Facelift Surgery

Most patients will be able to stop their pain medication a week after the facelift. You will slowly and steadily start to feel better and become more active around the house. You will still have bruising and swelling which might make you self-conscious while going out in public. The good news is that a week after surgery the side effects will start to subside.

Patience is a very important element of the recovery period, especially after a facelift surgery. It will take some time before you are able to see the final results of the procedure. You can use a cold compress to help with the swelling. Avoid applying heat of any kind to your face or near the incision site. Make sure to follow all the instructions given to you by your surgeon or the medical team. At this point, you will still be sleeping with your head in an elevated position. It will minimise your swelling and promote quick healing. You can start driving if you have stopped taking pain meds, a week after the surgery.

Two Weeks Post Facelift Surgery

As soon as you have hit the two-week mark, you can return to light work, if your job isn’t physically demanding. If your job requires physical effort, your surgeon might recommend you to take a few additional weeks off from work. You will still have some level of swelling and bruising.  You can easily cover bruising with mineral makeup.

It is common to experience a tingling sensation in your skin as the swelling goes down and sensations in your face start to return. While it is a very normal part of the recovery, it is important to get in touch with your surgeon if any symptom makes you feel uncomfortable. You can usually go back to taking your regular meds if your surgeon gives you a go. Stay clear of blood thinners as they can prolong the bruising.

One Month after a Facelift Surgery

Congratulations, you have finished most of your recovery. Most patients will be able to resume all of their day-to-day activities and even start to slowly return to exercise. Make sure to consult with your surgeon before returning to your regular exercise routine. Pay attention to your body while working out and stop any time you feel excessively tired.

It is not uncommon to experience mild, isolated swelling in certain parts of the face. Some patients also experience tingling sensations even a month after the surgery. It is common and nothing to be worried about.

Two Months after a Facelift Surgery

Once the initial two months have passed, you will be completely finished with the side effects of the surgery such as pain, swelling and bruising.

You can now confidently enjoy the results of the surgery. Moreover, you can completely return to your normal life and resume all sorts of activities including lifting and intense physical exercises.

Prepapring for a Facelift – What to do Before Facelift Surgery to Have a Smoother Recovery

Most people think about the recovery phase only after they are done with the surgery. With the right pre-surgery preparation, you can have a smoother recovery and be more prepared.

You can arrange in advance for someone to help you around the house during the initial phases of recovery, take some time off from work and take the essential steps that will help you with the recovery.

Here are a few things that can come in handy:

  • Make sure to stock up your fridge with healthy, low-sodium meals that you can simply reheat and eat after surgery. You don’t want to be eating anything unhealthy that is high in sodium as it will slow down the healing process. Make sure to choose balanced meals and incorporate protein into every single meal. A high fibre diet will be immensely helpful post the surgery. Try to make softer foods as they are easy to chew for the first days after the surgery
  • Make sure to get your comfortable clothes ready for the first few weeks of recovery. You won’t fancy doing your laundry when you are recovering. Make sure you have easy to wear, comfortable, and breathable clothes to wear during the recovery period
  • Prepare your resting and recovery space in advance. This will be where you will be spending most time after the surgery. Typically, it will be your bedroom or  lounge. If you can, add a recliner to your room as it makes sleeping much more comfortable. It will help to keep your head in an elevated position and minimise post-operative swelling. You can also rest in bed. Just make sure to stack up a couple of pillows to keep underneath your head. Keep the following items within your arm’s length: phone, charger, remote controls, tissues, water, medications, ointments, dressings, books/magazines/other items for entertainment, a few snacks, and anything else that you might need

Top Tips for a Smoother Recovery after Facelift

Here are some tips to have a quicker and smoother recovery:

  • Make sure to take all the prescribed meds on time if you want to avoid pain and infections during the recovery
  • Take a minimum of two weeks off from work. This time will allow you to recover smoothly and rest during the initial phases of recovery
  • Sleep with your head in an elevated position. Ideally, a recliner would work best. If you want to sleep in your bed instead, stack up a few pillows underneath your head
  • Eat healthy, balanced meals that are low in sodium. The right food will nourish your body from within and allow for a quick recovery
  • Make sure to visit the clinic for all the follow-up appointments. It will give him a chance to overview your progress and ensure you are not dealing with any complications
  • Use a cold compress to minimise swelling, following the surgery. Be careful and do not ice burn yourself. Wrap the ice in a towel and apply it for 10 minutes at a time
  • Take care of your incisions. Keep them clean and dry at all times and apply the topical ointments as instructed
  • Stay clear of heavy lifting and strenuous workouts for at least two months after getting a facelift surgery
  • Do not take blood-thinning medications, herbal supplements or any over the counter meds for at least the first two weeks of the surgery
  • Drink enough water to get rid of the excess fluid retention and help your body heal quickly
  • Do not vape, smoke or drink alcohol during the recovery phase as it will disrupt the healing process

At any point during the recovery, if you feel uncomfortable and experience complications, get in touch with your surgeon immediately. Do not ignore any of the following signs: fever, excessive-prolonged swelling, infections, rash, swelling on one side of the body, bleeding from the incision site and extreme pain.

Further Reading about Facelift Surgery

Medical Resources about Recovery after Facelift

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt Facelift Surgeon Sydney

Dr Jeremy Hunt is one a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is optimal for your body and your lifestyle.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has given thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia the aesthetic results they desire.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Tips for Exercising After Facelift Surgery
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Tips for Exercising After Facelift Surgery

Guide to Exercising after Facelift Surgery – Tips and Face Surgery Recovery Timeline

When undergoing facelift surgery, your first priority should be getting proper rest and allowing smooth recovery. Taking the recommended time off from work and resting will allow your body to heal fully. Post the surgery, your surgeon will give you detailed post-operative instructions which you should follow religiously. You may be keen to get back to your exercise routine and feel as normal as possible. However, it isn’t ideal to do exercise after a facelift surgery.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt has completed hundreds of facelift procedures in Australia. Dr Hunt is a Sydney plastic surgeon and facelift surgeon who practices in Sydney and Wollongong NSW.

Guide to Facial Rejuvenation

Facial Rejuvenation

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How Exercising Too Soon Can Impact Your Surgical Recovery

As a general rule of thumb, you will be looking at taking a few weeks off from work and staying clear of all the strenuous activities. If you work from home you will be fine to return to work, but if your job involves face to face interactions, you may not be comfortable seeing people for the first few weeks. You’ll have to put a hold on your regular exercise routine until you are fully recovered.

Exercising too soon post a facelift surgery procedure could lead to complications. An important risk is harming the sutures and reopening of incisions. Any kind of heavy lifting, straining and cardio will put a strain on your incision site and disrupt healing which can lead to larger scarring, infection, bleeding, and other complications. It can also lead to swelling and increased bruising which isn’t something any one of us desires to see on our faces.

 

Exercise Timeline after Facelift Surgery

Even when you feel physically and mentally fine, it is critical to follow the exercise timeline provided to you by your surgeon. Each patient is different and heals at a different pace. Hence, it is crucial to listen to your body and your surgeon. With that being said, here is a generalised timeline of exercise to follow post a facelift:

DAYS 1 TO 3 POST-FACELIFT

During this time of recovery, you will have a certain level of discomfort but you shouldn’t feel too much pain. You will be required to take medications to keep the pain and swelling under control. Do not worry as this is part of the healing process and is somewhat expected. Don’t expect to see results at this point. You will also feel tightness around your face and neck.

Try to stay relaxed and not stress your body by raising your blood pressure unduly at this point and arrange for someone to help you around the house. Your physical activity needs to be very minimal. If you have drainage tubes, you will most likely be asked to come in for a follow-up visit.

DO

Get enough bed rest for at least one full day after facelift surgery. You will feel quite tired at this point and won’t feel like moving at all. If you don’t feel like moving for two to three days, don’t push yourself hard. The most you can do for the first three days is walk lightly around the house.

DON’T

Do not overexert yourself for the first 48 hours post the surgery. Avoid all forms of exercise.

 WEEKS 1 TO 3 POST-FACELIFT

Most people will stop their pain medication at this point. Most people will also be able to start feeling more active around the house. Strenuous activities are still a big no-no. You will still have some bruising and swelling which can make you feel uncomfortable in public. Don’t worry as it will start to subside significantly by the end of week three. You can use a cool or heat compress to help with the swelling. Sleep with your head elevated as it will minimise swelling and promote healing.

DO

In the first week, feel free to walk around your house for 15 to 20 minutes. Gradually, build up the duration to 30 minutes as you feel better. By the end of two weeks, you can do light chores around the house such as cooking and dusting. Light stretching and yoga can also be included in your routine by the end of week three.

DON’T

During the first three weeks, avoid lifting heavy objects as they can put a strain on your incisions.

AROUND 4 WEEKS AFTER THE FACELIFT

Congratulations! You are over the most difficult part of your recovery. After one month, you will be able to resume a lot of the general activities. However, pay close attention to your body. If you feel tired, lethargic or weak at any point during the day, take some rest. The bruising and swelling will be mostly gone by now and you will begin to feel comfortable walking in public without any makeup. It is common to feel a slight tingling sensation in your skin. Don’t worry as it is perfectly normal.

DO

Keep up with the light cardio such as walking around the house, neighborhood or treadmill. You can also start cycling slowly on a stationary bike and gradually build up the intensity within the next few weeks.

DON’T

Pay close attention to your heart rate and make sure it doesn’t get too high. This one step alone will prevent swelling, keep bruising to a minimum, and avoid complications such as bleeding and seromas.

AROUND 6 WEEKS POST-FACELIFT

Most of the side effects such as swelling, bruising and tingling sensation in the face will subside and you will be given a go from your surgeon to start working out. If the surgeon feels like you are healing at a relatively slow pace, you might be asked to put a halt to physical activities for another two weeks.

There is nothing to worry about here. Every individual is different and has a different recovery journey. If everything goes as planned, you will be given a go-to resume for all sorts of physical activities including strenuous workouts and heavy lifting.

DO

Most people are able to engage in gentle exercise routines six weeks after facelift surgery. However, it is a good idea to check in with your surgeon prior to resuming your routine.

DON’T

Don’t forget that each individual is different and recovers at a different pace. It is important to take your individual journey into account while starting and stopping any specific exercise. With patience, realistic expectations, proper care, you can return back to your healthy, active lifestyle in no time at all.

exercising after facelift surgery - Dr Jeremy Hunt Leading Face Plastic Surgeon Sydney NSW

Exercises After a Surgical Facelift

Here is a list of exercises you can try post a surgical facelift. Make sure to stick to the timeline mentioned above:

1. Walking

Walking is the safest form of exercise post-facelift surgery. Walking lightly around the house will prevent blood clots and promote healing. It will also give you a burst of energy. It is important to walk at a super slow pace initially and take breaks when needed. Do not overexert yourself. If you feel tired at any point while walking, take a break. Begin your walks by from 5 minutes a day and gradually build it up to 30 minutes.

2. Cycling

You might get a go for cycling once you are past the three or four-week marker. You can either take out your bike and ride slowly on a straight road or use a stationary bike. Again, you don’t need to ride your bike super-fast or at an incline. Simply focus on getting your legs to move a bit and take breaks when you feel very tired.

3. Stretching and Yoga

Light stretching is recommended once you hit the four weeks marker. It will relieve stress from your muscles and give you much-needed flexibility. You can also try certain yoga poses. Make sure that none of the poses put stress on your incision sites or causes pain. If you feel pain, stop immediately or change the pose.

4. Pilates

Pilates is another great form of exercise to try past 4 to 5 weeks after the facelift. It targets individual muscle groups and helps with strength building without the need of lifting heavyweights. Start slow and gradually move up to more advanced Pilates exercises.

FAQs-about-Facelift-Surgery

FAQs about Exercising after Facelift Surgery

How soon after the facelift can I exercise?

  • You can begin light walking within the first week of the surgery. You can introduce cycling, light cardio within the next three weeks. Most patients are able to get back to their complete routines, six weeks after the surgery. However, it is important to check in with your surgeon prior to resuming any form of workout.

Why can’t I work out after the facelift?

  • Working out too soon after surgery will put a strain on your incisions and can lead to swelling, bruising, bleeding and seroma. It can increase the risk of complications and disrupt the healing process.

How long does it take to look normal after a facelift?

  • Most people start to look normal in about 4 to 6 weeks after the facelift surgery, after the swelling and bruising completely subside.

How long should I wait to workout or exercise after facial surgery?

  • Before going back to your regular workout routine, you have to wait for a minimum of six weeks after facial surgery. You can resume light walking a week after the surgery.

How long to wear the chin strap after a facelift?

  • Wear a chinstrap continuously for the first two weeks after the facelift surgery except while eating and showering/ cleaning incisions.

Can I go for a walk after a facelift?

  • Yes, you can totally start walking for 15 to 20 minutes even in the first week after a facelift. Gradually, increase the duration up to 30 minutes. Do not walk at a fast pace though.

How can I speed up healing after a facelift?

Here are a few steps that will speed up healing after a facelift surgery:

  • Rest as much as you possibly can as it will allow your body to heal
  • Take all the medications given to you by your surgeon
  • Sleep on your back with your head in an elevated position
  • Do not try strenuous exercises and heavy lifting for the first six weeks post-surgery
  • Use a cold compress to minimise swelling
  • Keep a healthy diet that is low in sodium
  • Wear a chinstrap that helps minimise swelling
  • Do not skip on follow up visits

How soon after the facelift surgery can I fly?

  • Most patients can take short-haul flights in about 48 hours after the facelift surgery. However, it is always a good idea to check in with your surgeon prior to flying.

What happens if you exercise too soon after surgery?

  • Exercising too soon post any kind of surgical procedure will put a strain on your stitches and could lead to bleeding, infections, swelling, and hematoma.

Further Reading about Facelift Surgery and Exercising after Facelift

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

dr jeremy hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery in Australia. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is optimal for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and, through his guidance, can achieve good results.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has given thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia the aesthetic results they desire.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.