Facelift Post-Operative Instructions
After your surgery it's normal to experience:
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A small amount of blood oozing from incisions
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Mild pain or discomfort
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Swelling and bruising
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Discomfort with chewing
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Tightness in cheeks/neck
Call the office if you experience:
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Severe or increasing pain on 1 side
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Enlargement of one side that feels as if fluid is trapped beneath the skin
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Large amounts of active bleeding
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Fever of greater than 101 degrees
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Nausea and vomiting that lasts beyond the first day
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A foul odor from incisions
Quick post-op reminders:
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Your head wrap should be worn nearly 24 hours a day for the first 3 days. You may remove it to shower, or for a short break. For post-surgery days 3-7, it is only mandatory to wear the wrap at night, but wearing it during the day will hasten the decrease in swelling.
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Apply ice packs as much as possible for the first 3 days. After day 3, ice should be applied for 20-40 minutes twice a day, for three more days.
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You may shower the day after your procedure and gently shampoo your hair. Apply antibiotic ointment to incisions and replace your head wrap when your hair is dry.
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Do not exercise until your post-op visit, usually around 12 days, although walking is permitted.
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You may resume taking Aspirin or drinking alcohol after 4 days if you have had no bleeding or other problems.