Healthy Healing: Face Lift Recovery Tips
Face lifts offer patients the chance to turn back the hands of time, lift sagging skin, and boost their self-confidence. However such remarkable change requires conscientious post-surgery downtime to focused healing well. Observing good habits post-surgery is as important to the success of a face lift as the surgery itself.
Phoenix and Scottsdale patients seeking the best results from face lift surgery should heed these recovery tips:
Cold compresses are your friend. In addition to relieving the pain associated with healing, applying compresses for 20 minutes at a time helps reduce swelling and bruising. A cold compress can be a nice store bought therapy compress or something as simple as a bag of frozen peas. Be sure the compress is wrapped in something soft to reduce the risk of damage to bandages and sutures.
Get homeopathic. Some natural remedies like arnica and bromelian can help to reduce swelling and bruising and lead to successful recovery. Taking multivitamins can also help promote wellness during your recovery time and boost your bodies ability to recover. Consult with your physician to determine what homeopathic remedies are appropriate for you.
Elevation. Stay upright inclined at a 25 to 45 degree angle after your procedure to reduce swelling and promote blood flow You can purchase post-op wedge pillows or simply create an elevation system for yourself out of items that you already have.
Lukewarm bathing. While it is refreshing to take a long hot shower, in the weeks after your procedure keep the temperature of your bath or shower low. Hot water and excessive stream can cause unwanted and unnecessary swelling.
Set the stage. Before you head out to surgery, organize your living and recovery space for optimal ease. Place necessary items like the phone and medications in easy to reach areas to limit movement. Invest in open front robes and button down shirts to make getting dressed simple. Go grocery shopping prior to surgery and consider preparing meals ahead of time. Ask a friend to stay with you the first night or two to help you get settled and attend to your needs.
Eat well. Opt for low sodium foods as an excess of salt may cause swelling. Vitamin K helps fight swelling and bruising so load up on leafy greens, eggs, and yogurt which are dense in the nutrient. Pineapple juice contains a natural dose of bromelain which can also help fight swelling. Healthy eating can speed recovery and help you look great.
Mind your doctor. In addition to these tips pay careful attention to your doctor’s instructions including drug dosage, follow-up appointments, and other important details. Dr. Caniglia wants your face lift to be as successful as you do, so heed all his precautions and advice.
If you are in the Scottsdale or Phoenix areas and interested in a face lift procedure or any other facial cosmetic boost, call our Caniglia Facial Plastic Surgery Center offices at (480) 483-6200 to set-up a consultation appointment to determine what procedures will help you achieve your desired results.
