Facelift surgery in North Carolina, also known as a rhytidectomy, can produce exceptional, long-lasting results that rejuvenate the appearance of the face and neck and reduce the signs of aging. The effects of a facelift are very long-lasting, and unlike temporary treatments such as dermal fillers or injectables, the full results can take some time to become completely apparent. There is a recovery period after a facelift procedure, and it is important to prepare for your needs after you return home.
At Queen City Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Enam Haque is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care for all of his patients, both in producing beautiful, natural results and in follow-up and education. When you visit Queen City Plastic Surgery for an initial consultation, Dr. Haque will evaluate your case, needs, and medical history on an individualized basis, make recommendations, answer your questions completely and explain the procedure itself as well as the recovery period following your surgery.
What Should You Expect in the First Days After a Facelift?
While it can take a year for the complete results of a facelift to become entirely apparent, most patients see beautiful, comfortable results within the first 30 days. The enhancement will continue beyond that time, but most people who receive a facelift are happy with their renewed appearance during that time. This is also an important period for rest, care, and recovery.
A facelift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, so you will be able to go home to care for yourself after surgery. During the first 24 hours following a facelift, rest is one of the most important things that you can do to support your recovery. Dr. Haque will provide you with any pain relief or other treatments necessary during this time, and it is best to have a friend or family member with you for that first initial period. After the first 24 to 48 hours, you can expect to be able to perform daily, routine tasks for yourself, such as preparing food, walking around your home, and visiting the bathroom. Queen City Plastic Surgery will provide you with detailed written instructions that are easy to follow and answer any questions you may have.
How Should You Care For Your Incisions?
In most cases, the incisions for a facelift are placed around the hairline, close to the temples, curving to the back of the ear. Dr. Haque places incisions in order to minimize scarring and leave imperceptible natural results. The day after your surgery, Dr. Haque will clean and inspect the incisions and change the bandages before providing special instructions for further care. Patients are commonly able to begin washing their hair, getting the incisions wet, after around three days following the facelift.
While most people do not need any special treatments for their incisions, they must be protected from the sun. If any further creams or protective treatments are needed, Queen City Plastic Surgery will prescribe them.
All patients need time and rest to recover after a facelift and ensure the best possible results. There are a few things that you can do to ease your recovery process, including:
- Resting as much as you need. Make sure to take it easy when you can.
- Drinking plenty of water. Your body needs hydration to heal.
- Following the instructions from Dr. Haque. You will receive care instructions to guide you through the process successfully.
When Can You Go Back to Work After a Facelift?
Everyone’s recovery may take place at a different rate, depending on their other needs and concerns. However, in most cases, you can expect to return to work and resume normal routines after approximately 10 to 14 days. When it is appropriate, Dr. Haque will remove any remaining sutures, and you may expect that most bruising or swelling will subside by this time.
While it is safe to return to work, assuming that the job involves light physical activity, it is typically best to refrain from heavy exertion and exercise that may place undue strain on the face during this time. After one month following your facelift, you can prepare to return to your exercise routine and social schedule, while your facelift continues to heal and your final results become even more visible.
Schedule a Facelift Consultation in Charlotte, NC
Facelifts can produce remarkable results for men and women who want to rejuvenate their facial appearance, with many years of long-lasting effects. You can learn more about facelift surgery by scheduling an initial consultation and evaluation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Enam Haque at Queen City Plastic Surgery. Contact our office today through our secure online contact form or call our Charlotte office at 704-859-2389 to set up an appointment for an initial consultation and to learn more about how a facelift can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.