Since the healing process is gradual, you should expect to wait several weeks for an accurate picture of your "new look".  Depending on the type of facelift, the results of your facelift may vary.  You will only be able to appreciate the final results when the swelling and bruising subside.  In order to make the healing process go as quickly as possible make sure you follow your surgeon’s instructions.  Your surgeon may want you to clean the wounds with swabbing with hydrogen peroxide. 

If there is redness or swelling that feels painful use antibiotic ointment.  Also make sure you note any excessive bleeding.  Bleeding should not continue for more than ten minutes with applied pressure.   If bleeding or swelling becomes persistent please contact your board certified plastic surgeon.

Enhance the Results of a Facelift

Please be aware that a facelift cannot correct conditions such as sagging eyebrows, excess skin in the upper and lower eyelids, or the mouth.  In many cases, facelifts are combined with other procedures such as a blepharoplasty, a technical term for surgical removal of bags underneath the eyes.  Wrinkles around the mouth can be treated with dermal implants.  Other options include dermal fillers, substances that can be injected around the mouth to plump up the tissue.  Plastic surgeons may also suggest injections of botox, a muscle-relaxing drug, into the lips to create a more “pouty” look. 

Be sure to talk to you board certified plastic surgeon regarding the results of your facelift and whether combining other types of facial plastic surgery is right for you.