Most facial rejuvenation patients will find their surgery recovery to be easier than expected. At PERK Plastic Surgery, we strive for a seamless and stress-free process–from the initial consultation and continued throughout the post-op care period. Our clients are seen routinely after surgery to ensure optimal healing. Each client will receive an individual set of instructions to follow at the preoperative appointment. The instructions below are general guidelines for the procedures.
Your incisions are meticulously placed in natural skin tension lines with absorbable sutures. No sutures will be removed. Your main “to-do” will be to apply an antibiotic ointment to the incisions daily. The face and neck will appear swollen with the major inflammation subsiding over the first few weeks. As your tissues heal, you may notice asymmetry, lumps and bumps–it is important to remember that this is completely normal and will settle with time. You may have drains for 1-2 days and/or be asked to wear a compression wrap. Refer to your specific instructions provided for details and drain care.
Most clients are “socially presentable” 2-3 weeks after facial surgery.
Inflammation, bruising, numbness and feeling “tight” is expected. Swelling usually peaks at 48 hours and then will gradually decrease. The numbness will improve with time as well.
If your swelling is rapidly increasing with an associated increased pain in the area, please contact the office.
Most patients are pleasantly surprised with the pain associated with facial surgery. The majority of discomfort and pain subsides within the first week. By 2 weeks post-op, many clients are no longer taking pain medication.
You will be seen in the office within one week of your surgery. If any concerns arise, we’ll ask that you come in sooner. We will continue to meet regularly throughout the year following your operation.
You will be instructed to apply antibiotic ointment to your incisions daily for 1-2 weeks. As they heal, we will guide you on how to optimize and improve the scar’s appearance–including PERKPotions medical grade scar gel, microneedling, PRP, and more.
You can shower 24 hours after surgery or after the drain is removed. Please keep the following in mind:
It is important to take it easy after facial surgery, allowing your body time to recuperate and heal. Most patients are cleared of all restrictions at 4 weeks post-surgery.
It is required that a responsible adult drives you home and cares for you during the first 24 hours post-surgery. Once you are no longer taking prescription pain meds and you can safely turn your neck and shoulders, you may drive yourself–typically 1 week after surgery. Do not drive when taking pain medication other than Tylenol.
Depending on the nature of your job and required physical activity, you should be able to get back to work as soon as you are comfortable. Most patients return to desk jobs 2 weeks after surgery. You can not lift anything over 5 pounds for four weeks. You are socially presentable 2-3 weeks after surgery.
A light diet is best for after surgery. Begin by taking liquids slowly and progress to soups or jello from there. You may return to a regular diet the following day. We encourage a high protein, low-salt diet. Please see our presurgical diet guide for more information.
Do not drink alcohol while taking narcotic pain medication after your surgery. It is best to wait 1-2 weeks post-surgery.
This refers to blood collecting in the surgical area. This is most likely to occur within a few days of surgery. Warning signs include:
Infection is rare following facial surgery. It is normal to have minimal drainage from your incisions for 1-2 days.
Signs of infection can include the following:
Swollen legs, with or without associated pain, may indicate a problem with the circulation in your legs. Contact the office immediately if you experience significant swelling (either one or both legs) or pain in the legs.
Mild, painless and even (uniform) swelling is considered normal, such as:
Experiencing trouble breathing after surgery is rare but can indicate a severe complication. If you develop any chest and/or back pain, or feel short of breath, you must contact the office or be seen in the nearest emergency medical facility without delay.
Stop taking your medication and contact the office if the following occurs:
Drain Care Video
Blepharoplasty Post-Op Video
Buccal Fat Removal Post-Op Video
Facelift & Neck Lift Post-Op Video
Lip Lift Post-Op Video
