A facelift is a major but safe cosmetic procedure. A quiet recovery period is essential for the best results and it is therefore advisable to read up on it. On this page you can read what to expect in the weeks after the operation, how to promote your recovery and when to contact us.
The first days after the facelift
After the operation you will usually stay with us for one night. The next morning we will remove the drains, change the dressing and give you instructions for home.
In the first few days after the procedure you may experience:
– Swelling and discoloration of the face;
– A tense or numb feeling in the skin;
– Thickenings under the skin (due to subcutaneous sutures);
– Mild after-pain.
These complaints are normal and will gradually disappear over the course of a few weeks. In this phase of recovery, it is important to really take it easy. The advice of our plastic surgeons? Plan sufficient rest periods for the first two weeks after your facelift and avoid pressure on your face, for example when bending over, lifting or talking or laughing intensively.
Care
- Showering and washing hair: may from the second day after surgery. Use lukewarm water and a mild shampoo. Pat the face dry gently, do not rub.
- Bandage on the face: The pressure bandage can be removed as soon as it remains dry and no more blood comes on it. The elastic facial band (under the chin and over the cheeks) is best worn continuously for the first week. After that only at night, in consultation with your doctor.
- Stitches: These are dissolvable and do not need to be removed. The subcutaneous stitches can be felt as small thickenings for the first few weeks, especially in front of the ears.
- Scars: The scars are red and tender at first. This is normal. Scars take about 12 hours to heal. one year. Always protect them well from the sun during this time.
What you should avoid (temporarily)
The first two weeks it is important that you avoid strenuous activities as much as possible. In addition, you may not bend over or lift heavy objects. We strongly advise against alcohol and smoking; your plastic surgeon will also inform you about this during the first consultation. Furthermore, our surgeons adhere to the following rules of conduct after a facelift:
– To play sports: You may resume after six weeks;
– Swimming, bathing and sauna visits: You may resume after six weeks;
– Cycling and driving: You can resume after one to two weeks, but listen to your body's signals;
– Sunbed/sunbathing: You may do this again after three months, but for optimal scar healing, wait as long as possible.
When can I work again?
Do you have an office job? Then you can usually go back to work after two weeks. For a physically demanding job or a job with a lot of social interaction, we advise you to consult your plastic surgeon. He or she can advise you best.
When will I be presentable again?
You will be presentable again after a few weeks. Please note that your face may be swollen, sensitive or bruised for a few weeks. We recommend that you do not plan social engagements until after a few weeks. Not only because you may not feel presentable, but mainly because your face is still recovering and a lot of social interaction during the healing process can quickly cost too much energy.
Tip from our plastic surgeons
Give your body time. A facelift heals step by step; the final result will only be visible after a few months. With good aftercare, rest and some patience, you can count on a natural and rejuvenating result.
When will you contact us?
Although complications are rare, it is important to be alert. Always contact us immediately if:
– Severe swelling or bleeding;
– Stabbing, increasing pain despite the use of paracetamol;
– Fever above 38.5°C;
– Redness, pus or a foul odor from the wound;
– Unusual tension or a feeling of pressure on one side of the face.
We are Available 24/7 for emergencies or urgent questions. Esthetisch Centrum Jan van Goyen is a subsidiary of OLVG, which means that you are assured of good care and rapid medical follow-up when necessary.
More information?
Recovery is the final step of your treatment. Would you like to read more about the consultation and the operation itself? Then click here For more information.
Doctors
During the no-obligation consultation, you will discuss your wishes and the treatment with the plastic surgeon. We understand that a procedure can be a significant step, so the surgeon is happy to take the time to tell you all about it. Our specialized surgeons are:
