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

After a face lift, I recommend a normal diet which can include vitamins and supplements to optimize healing. About a week before and after surgery, patients may benefit from using Arnica Montana and Bromelain (pineapple juice) to decrease bruising and swelling. The only dietary restrictions are to avoid constipating foods and fish oil as well as other supplements which may cause bleeding.


2. When is my first postoperative face lift appointment?

The first postoperative appointment is the next day when the dressing is removed and the patient is instructed to cleanse the face and apply antibiotic ointment, dressings and a snug ace wrap. Drains are removed if placed during surgery. Finally I am a strong advocate of ice compresses and head elevation for the first 3 days postoperatively. Patients may shower 2-3 days after surgery.


3. Does it hurt to get the drains removed?

Only 50% of my patients require drains during surgery and almost all are removed the next day. The drain removal is essentially painless and does not require pain medications or numbing. The drain sites heal spontaneously in 2 days with inconspicuous scars.


4. Are there any instructions about regular daily activities?

Postoperatively, I instruct my patients to limit activities for the first 5-10 days depending on the amount of surgery. My trademark RefreshLift patients have less bruising, swelling and discomfort as well as shorter incisions allowing them to return to regular activities and work in 5-7 days. I recommend they avoid heavy exercise, certain head positions and excessive activities for 2 weeks.


5. When will I look normal?

Most of my RefreshLift patients look good enough to return to work and most social activities in 5-7 days after surgery. It may take longer if eyelids and/or brow lifts were performed as well. However, it takes about 2 weeks to look close to normal and by 3 weeks, most patients feel they look completely normal.


6. How can I learn more about facelifts?

The best place to learn about face lift procedures is to consult a board certified plastic surgeon who has significant experience and great results performing these procedures. Plastic surgery websites and society websites (ASAPS or ASPS) tend to have excellent information on the various procedures such as face lifts.


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

The only medications I prescribe are a pain med, antibiotic and an anti-nausea med. I do not believe steroids (cortisone meds) help except at the time of surgery. Finally, I do recommend the use of Arnica and Bromelain.