What is Deep Plane Facelift Recovery Like?
The facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a procedure used to minimize the signs of aging like sagging tissues, creases, and lines around the face and neck. The facelift is a surgery, meaning it comes with recovery time and important aftercare steps. If you are considering deep plane facelift surgery, knowing what to expect from your recovery can be helpful. Here is what to know about deep plane facelift recovery with Dr. Emily Misch, our New York City-trained facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon.
What is a Deep Plane Facelift?
The facelift has remained the most effective way to reverse signs of aging for decades. Although in the past the facelift created unnatural or stretched results, the modern deep plane facelift is completely different. It works by lifting and rejuvenating the different layers of the face back to their natural, youthful position – as well as getting rid of excess, sagging skin. By doing this, it reverses the effects of gravity and aging, creating a stunning and revitalized look.
How to Prepare for Deep Plane Facelift Surgery
After your thorough consultation with Dr. Misch, our team will give you detailed preparation instructions for your surgery. This typically includes completing bloodwork, signing consent forms, and scheduling your surgery date. It can be an exciting time, and we recommend taking good care of your skin and body to ensure you’re in good health ahead of your procedure by eating nutritious foods and getting enough sleep.
Dr. Misch will review your medications and may tell you to stop taking some of them prior to surgery. This will help her achieve the best results and reduce bleeding risks during your surgery.
What to Expect After Facelift Surgery
After surgery, it’s normal to have some swelling and bruising, both of which will subside over the first few weeks. You can expect to take two to three weeks away from work and social events while you recover. Over the next one to two months, your results will settle in, and you can enjoy your new look. However, keep in mind that it can take up to a year for you to see full results. Dr. Misch will recommend ways to improve healing in your post-op appointments.
Tips for Healing
Our team will recommend a few key tips to help you get the best results from your facelift. Here are just a few:
Keep your head elevated: Keeping your head elevated will prevent excess swelling that can negatively affect your results. Sleep with your head propped on a couple of pillows or in a recliner for the first one to two weeks.
Avoid sunlight: Sunlight can easily damage the new skin that closes your incisions, causing visible scarring. Avoid sunlight for the first several weeks and wear broad-spectrum sunscreen daily of SPF 30+.
Limit your activity: Resting is essential to getting good results. Plan to avoid any strenuous activity for the first two to three weeks, or until cleared by Dr. Misch. If you normally do any strenuous tasks around the house, plan to enlist help during this time.
Avoid heat: While a hot, relaxing shower may sound nice after surgery, it’s best avoided. Heat sources like showers, hot tubs, and saunas can increase inflammation and damage the skin. When bathing, stick to lukewarm or warm water and avoid prolonged exposure.
Eat healthy: Eating a varied diet full of lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber is key to helping your body stay healthy and capable of recovering.
Deep Plane Facelift in Denver, CO
If you’re ready to take the next step and learn more about the facelift, schedule a consultation with Dr. Misch today. Contact our Denver, CO office by calling or filling out our online form.