A facelift is the ultimate facial rejuvenating treatment. Although there are other non-surgical treatments available, like Botox® injections or dermal fillers, none of them will ever achieve the same results as a surgical lift. Sometimes, the only way to achieve the desired cosmetic transformation is by tightening the skin and support layers underneath.
The results obtained with a surgical facelift are impressive and natural-looking, but the aftercare of your skin plays a crucial role in the recovery of your tissues. Below, we listed some useful tips and recommendations to take good care of your skin after surgery:
- Cleanse & Moisturize. It is essential to keep the surgical areas hydrated and bacteria-free. After removing your bandages, you will be given specific instructions on cleaning and moisturizing the incisions and surrounding areas. This promotes proper healing and avoids infections and other post-op complications.
- Avoid Sun Exposure. The scars left after the surgery eventually fade away, either on their own or with the help of non-invasive procedures. However, if they are repeatedly exposed to direct sunlight, they can leave permanent marks on your skin. We advise patients to stay away from sunlight as much as possible or at least wear a hat and sunscreen if it’s unavoidable.
- Drink Water. You will lose plenty of fluids during the facelift, so it is vital to drink water to stay hydrated after surgery. Water plays a crucial role in the healing of the tissues and also helps keep your skin moisturized from the inside out. We advise drinking at least 65 ounces of water per day.
- Get Some Rest. You will probably feel exhausted after surgery, so it’s essential you listen to your body and get a well-deserved rest. Your body heals while you sleep, so the more you rest, the better. Try to get a solid 9-hour night of sleep per day, or at least take a nap whenever you feel tired.
- Avoid Strenuous Activities. Although we will always encourage physical activity, you need to give your body some time to heal. We still recommend light exercise, like walking short distances in your yard or down the street, but you will need to wait at least two weeks to consider other types of exercise.
- Stay Away From Your Makeup Bag. Patients must avoid makeup and cosmetic lotions until cleared by Dr. Daugherty, usually about two weeks after the procedure. Keeping incisions clean is vital to promote the proper healing of wounds.
- Don’t smoke. Smoking directly interferes with wound healing and can cause some of the most severe post-op complications in facelift patients. We advise our patients to quit smoking for four weeks before and four weeks after the facelift.
Facelift in Baton Rouge, LA.
If you still have doubts about the post-op or want to ask further questions about the surgery, do not hesitate to contact us and schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Robyn Daugherty. She will use her vast experience and unique expertise to give personalized recommendations!