21 Sep 2023 | by Leonard Miller, MD, FACS, FRCS
For decades, the idea of a facelift recovery might bring to mind weeks of bandages, pain, and time hidden away from the world – something only the rich and famous could afford. However, the healing period after a modern facelift is not what many people think. Created by Dr. Leonard Miller, the Boston Center for Plastic Surgery’s natural surgical facelift can provide optimal results without the intense, painful, and lengthy recovery seen in the past.
Mild Discomfort
Dr. Miller’s natural surgical facelift is performed using a state-of-the-art technique that includes minimal incisions. With smaller incisions, there is less pain following the procedure. During the first one to two days most patients are sore and tender. While Dr. Miller will provide a prescription pain reliever for the first few days, many patients find they do not need opiates, at all.
Minimal Swelling and Bruising
Keeping the well-placed incisions to a minimum, Dr. Miller’s natural surgical facelift keeps bruising and swelling light and short-lived. Bruising, if any, will generally be mild and diminish over the first week. Any swelling may take several weeks to resolve, however, Dr. Miller’s technique means less trauma to the facial tissues, for quicker healing. Adverse effects and serious complications from the natural surgical facelift are extremely rare.
Post-op Care
Dr. Miller’s natural facelift is performed on an outpatient basis, getting patients back to their comfortable, home-like surroundings right away. For the first day or two after surgery, as with any major invasive technique, assistance around the house is recommended, especially for those with children to care for. However, the recovery should progress quickly. Patients can usually remove their own dressings, as Dr. Miller will provide detailed instructions for at-home wound care. The hair can be washed on the second post-op day. One week after surgery, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled with Dr. Miller, ensuring the recovery progression is going as planned.
Quickly Back to a Normal Routine
Most patients are feeling and looking good enough to return to work seven to ten days after their facelift procedure. While everyone heals differently, on average, people need just a little more than a week for the initial recovery. While walking and moving around is encouraged immediately, more strenuous exercise should wait for at least two and a half weeks. Heavy lifting and vigorous exercise may need to be postponed for four to six weeks. Dr. Miller will walk you through when, and how much, exercise can be resumed at each stage of recovery.
Contact the Boston Center for Plastic Surgery to Learn More
To find out if you are a good candidate for Dr. Miller’s natural surgical facelift, and to ask any questions about the recovery period, contact the Boston Center for Plastic Surgery at 617.450.0070 or fill out our easy, online Contact Us form.
