Face & Neck Lift Instructions

Preparing for Facial Surgery: Important Guidelines for a Successful Recovery

Bring loose clothing that closes in the front for your facelift or neck lift surgery. This will allow for easier dressing and undressing on the day of surgery.

Arrange to have a family member or friend pick you up from the hospital. By law, you are required to have an escort to leave the premises, who may also receive important information from Dr. Westreich after the surgery. Due to the medications given by the anesthesiologist, most patients do not remember instructions or other information that is relayed to them in the recovery room.

Expect to be in recovery for 2-4 hours after the procedure. When you are comfortable and able to drink liquids without difficulty, you will be cleared for discharge home.

Fill your prescriptions before the day of surgery, so they are ready when you get home.

Do not take any aspirin-containing products, Advil, Motrin, vitamins, or herbal supplements for one week prior to your surgical date. If you take any other medications, clear them with Dr. Westreich at your pre-operative visit.

Follow Up

If not given before surgery, you must call the office to schedule your post-operative visit. Typically, your first visit shall be 5-7 days after surgery.

Pain

Pain is often not a significant issue. Try to take extra-strength Tylenol (not Advil, Motrin, Aleve, or aspirin) even if you are not in pain. Start the night after the surgery. This may help to prevent the pain cycle from beginning. If you need more pain control, take the prescribed medication. This medication may make you nauseous or constipated, so use it only as needed.

Abnormal Pain

Severe pain not alleviated by the narcotic prescription medication or pain that does not begin to improve 72 hours after the surgery may be considered unusual. Call Dr. Westreich if you have concerns about your pain. Discomfort around the eyes is often reduced with ice, rather than with prescription medication.

Bleeding and Discharge

These are the expected results of your surgery. If you experience significant bleeding, call Dr. Westreich immediately.

Reactions to Anesthesia

It may include mild sore throat, dry mouth, nausea, and fatigue.

Swelling and Bruising

Every patient is different, and every surgery is individualized. To reduce swelling and bruising, sleep on your back with your head elevated on a minimum of two pillows. Use ice for the first 72 hours. Two bags of frozen peas work well for this purpose. Use for 30 minutes every 1-2 hours while awake. Swelling and bruising may be most severe 2-3 days after your surgery, so do not be alarmed, and it usually resolves 4-7 days after the surgery. Bruising may take up to two weeks to resolve. You may begin wearing makeup or concealer after your stitches are removed. Arnica and Bromelain capsules are available at the office. These may help to reduce the severity of bruising and swelling.

Dressing Care

Try to keep your incisions dry for 48-72 hours after surgery. If tape is present, try to keep that dry as well. Avoid washing your hair for 72 hours.

Activity

Should be limited for the first 4-7 days, depending on how you feel. You can slowly increase your level of activity after your first post-operative visit.