Now that your facelift, eyelid lift, brow lift or other facial cosmetic surgery is complete, the hard part is over. Although you have yet to finish the recovery process, you are in the home stretch. Soon, you will be able to enjoy the revitalizing aesthetic results of your facial rejuvenation procedure.
Before that time, however, it is crucial to care for your skin properly so that you achieve the best results possible from your cosmetic procedure. To help you learn how to care for your skin after facial rejuvenation surgery, here are some of the skincare tips I give my Fairfax / Bethesda facelift patients after surgery.
Minimize swelling. Particularly in the first three days after your procedure, apply cold compresses to the treatment area to minimize swelling. (To avoid irritation, do not apply ice directly to the skin.) You should sleep on your back, using a few pillows to elevate your head above your heart, to avoid increased swelling while you sleep.
Minimize bruising. I recommend that some patients take Arnica Montana, an herbal supplement designed to help alleviate bruising and discoloration.
Cleanse. Your face might feel sore or tender after cosmetic surgery, but do not let that stop you from cleansing the skin regularly. Keeping the skin clean helps the healing process and protects against breakouts. Just be sure to use gentle, hypoallergenic products, such as soap-free cleansers and fragrance-free moisturizers. You can also try using mild astringent pads to cleanse tender areas, as they put less pressure on the skin. Don’t forget to apply a non-comedogenic moisturizer afterward.
Avoid sun exposure. Especially in the first few days after your facial rejuvenation procedure, stay out of the sun. If you do have to go outside, use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 40 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. (Sunscreens with higher SPFs tend to clog pores.)
Stay hydrated. Your body is about 70 percent water. Water helps your body heal by supporting healthy blood circulation and helping to flush toxins from the body. Drink about eight glasses of water a day to stay properly hydrated after surgery.
Ask me about makeup. If you do not have any open wounds and your skin is intact, you can most likely resume using makeup within a few days after surgery. If you have any questions about makeup use that are not answered in your pre- or post-operative office visits, do not hesitate to ask me.
Undergoing facial rejuvenation surgery can provide transformative, renewing results. But to get the best results possible, do not overlook the importance of proper skincare.
To schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Joseph Michaels to learn about cosmetic procedures that will enhance your facial rejuvenation results, please contact Michaels Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery by calling 703.957.8610 (for the Fairfax office) or 301.468.5991 (for the Bethesda office) today.
