Facelift aftercare
This advice is general and applies to the average patient. It serves as a guide, but please keep in mind that recovery times vary, and some patients may heal faster than others.
Before you leave the hospital
MEDICATIONS
You’ll be given painkillers and antibiotic ointment to apply to your suture line once the bandage is removed.
CHANGE OF DRESSINGS
Your dressings will be changed before discharge, and a light bandage will be applied. Remove it after 48 hours, and apply a thin layer of the antibiotic ointment to your suture lines.
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS FOR DRESSING CLINICS
You’ll receive a card with your first follow-up appointment details and contact information for the ward in case you have any concerns after leaving the hospital.
Facelift instructions
- Have someone drive you home after surgery.
- Get plenty of rest to aid your recovery.
- Start walking as soon as possible to reduce swelling and lower the risk of blood clots.
- Follow a balanced diet. Add raw fruit and fiber to prevent constipation, and increase your fluid intake.
- Take pain medication as prescribed. Do not take aspirin or products containing aspirin unless approved by your surgeon.
- Avoid smoking for at least two weeks, as smoking delays healing and increases the risk of complications.
- Avoid alcohol when taking pain medications. Even if you are not on pain meds, it’s advisable to avoid alcohol for up to three weeks as it can cause fluid retention and worsen swelling.
Returning to Work After Facelift Surgery
Wound Care Instructions
- Apply the antibiotic ointment provided to your external sutures twice a day until your stitches are removed.
- Be gentle when washing your face, using a mild detergent or soap.
- Avoid using makeup or cosmetics on your external incisions until the wound is fully healed, usually within three weeks.
Activities After Facelift Surgery
Bathe after removing the light bandage 48 hours post-discharge. Wash your hair with baby shampoo, brushing it gently away from the suture lines. Apply antibiotic ointment lightly after showering.
Sleep comfortably on two or three pillows; no need to sleep propped upright.
Wear clothing that is easy to remove. Avoid tight tops that you must pull over your head to prevent them from catching on your suture lines or ears.
We recommend waiting at least one week before driving after your surgery.
Avoid strenuous activities or anything that raises your blood pressure for 3-4 weeks. Contact sports should be avoided for at least two months.
Wearing glasses may be uncomfortable with your bandage. After that, glasses can be worn with care.
Follow-up
Attend a specialist nurse clinic for a check-up and suture removal.
Schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to discuss your surgery outcome and any concerns.
When to Call
- Increased swelling or bruising that isn’t improving.
- Swelling in one or both legs, or shortness of breath (possible clot – DVT/PE).
- Increased redness along the incision (may indicate infection).
- Severe or increasing pain not relieved by medication.
- Side effects from medications, such as rash, nausea, headache, or vomiting.
- Temperature over 38°C
- Yellowish or greenish discharge from the incisions.
- Bleeding from the incisions that’s hard to control with light pressure.
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