1. Are there any dietary restrictions following face lift surgery?

It is usually suggested that one eat soft bland foods following a face lift surgery to avoid heartburn that can occur following a procedure.


2. When is my first postoperative face lift appointment?

Following face lift surgery we usually suggest a follow up the next day, at one week, two weeks, six weeks and three months. This allows us to monitor the swelling, healing and remove sutures as needed. In some situations additional fillers or laser procedures are used to optimize the results.


3. Does it hurt to get the drains removed?

Once the bandages are removed the drain is slid out. It often not even noticed as the skin is still numb, the next morning when the drain is removed.


4. Are there any instructions about regular daily activities?

We suggest that no vigorous activities for two weeks following the surgery. This means one is not supposed to raise their heart rate or blood pressure for two weeks to reduce the risk of bleeding and additional swelling. Driving can usually be done once the pain pills are not being used and the person feels comfortable. One usually is able to wash their hair the following day. We suggest waiting at least two weeks before coloring the hair however. Normal activities begin as soon as possible otherwise.


5. When will I look normal?

This varies depending upon the procedures and the normal appearance. In some cases it can take 6 weeks to three months, however in most situations a week or two. Most people will go back to work in a week with some cover up. The swelling below the eyes and below the chin are usually the last areas to look normal. However, most people like the fuller cheeks and few see below the chin. However, it varies person to person.


6. How can I learn more about face lifts?

The best source is usually a plastic or cosmetic surgeon' s office. In some cases you can ask to talk with a previous patient and they can describe their experience. Face lifts vary by provider and person. The surgery and the experience are very personal individual moments. There are blogs on line and certainly many articles and even books on face lifts. The main thing to consider is your facial features and those that you would like to enhance. Then consider your surgeon and see what they might recommend. After this you can read more about the specific suggestions and see if it fits your goals. Look at before and after photos. Try to find some that have similar features so that you might be able to see what you might look like afterwards. I would suggest choosing your plastic surgeon first and then allowing them to help you learn more about the face lift surgery as there is more information than one can seriously digest and a lot of it is redundant and can be misleading especially if your surgeon only performs the surgery a specific way for your specific features and goals.


7. Will I need any special prescriptions following face lift surgery?

Some people will need pain pills others just use Tylenol. It really depends. In our practice we commonly prescribe sleep aids and relaxants to help one relax and avoid high blood pressure and anxiety, as well as pain pills and on occasion some antibiotic ointment. All of the medicines we prescribe are only to be used as needed and is usually addressed on an individual basis in the preoperative examination.