Facelift Recovery (Rhytidectomy): Things To Avoid After Your Rhytidectomy Surgery

You might be familiar with rhytidectomy or facelift surgery. But do you know what happens during recovery? Knowing what to do, and just as importantly, what to avoid, can have a major impact on your (rhytidectomy) facelift recovery journey.

In this article, we will discuss some aspects of recovery, including what you should avoid. If you have more specific questions or concerns about the procedure, you are welcome to schedule a consultation with Dr Jeremy Richardson in Melbourne.

What is a rhytidectomy or facelift?

A rhytidectomy is the proper term for the surgery known as a “facelift.” It’s a cosmetic procedure typically done to remove excess skin and reposition the remaining facial tissue. For many people, this can address facial ageing issues regarding skin laxity, wrinkles, or facial contour.

If you’re wondering whether this procedure is right for you, it may be worth having a consultation with Dr Richardson. He can assess your candidacy and make personalised recommendations.

Things to avoid after rhytidectomy surgery

Now, let’s discuss some things to avoid after your (rhytidectomy) facelift recovery.

1.Strenuous physical activity
During (rhytidectomy) facelift recovery, your body will need enough time and rest. This means patients have to pause their usual routines, whether that be going to the gym or working at a physically demanding job. Taking several weeks off moderately physical tasks (and longer for very strenuous activity) is necessary to give your body the time it needs to heal.

2.Smoking and alcohol
If continued during recovery, certain habits can have a negative effect on the healing process. Smoking affects the body’s blood pressure and oxygen levels, making it harder to heal and putting a recovering patient at a higher risk for complications. Similarly, alcohol can also delay the healing process and increase a patient’s risks. Dr Richardson advises patients to quit smoking well before a rhytidectomy or facelift and during their recovery, and, in addition, to avoid consuming alcohol.

3.Sun exposure
It’s important to be conscious of the location of your incisions and avoid exposing these sites to the sun. This is because sun exposure can make the scars appear darker than they would otherwise, which can affect a patient’s satisfaction with the results. Skin damage due to sun exposure is also dangerous to recovery and can slow the healing process.

Therefore, try to avoid spending too much time outdoors, and if you go outside, practice sun-safe habits. For example, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen with a high SPF and avoid direct sunlight on the operated region.

4.Certain sleeping positions
Since the procedure involves incisions at the sides of the face, it’s important to be careful with how you position yourself for rest. You should avoid anything that may cause irritation to your healing areas, and this includes certain sleeping positions. Sleeping on your side or front, for example, can irritate your incision sites, increase risks, and exacerbate side effects such as swelling.

Instead, we advise patients to sleep on their backs with their heads slightly elevated. Extra pillows can help prop oneself slightly upright.

Choose Dr Richardson for facelift surgery in Melbourne

Choosing a surgeon is one of the most important decisions when it comes to cosmetic surgery. A trained and qualified surgeon can develop an appropriate surgical plan, as well as guide the patient through their post-operative healing.

Specialist plastic surgeon Dr Jeremy Richardson is pleased to consult with patients interested in facial cosmetic surgery. He will assess your needs and goals, inform you about risks and recovery, and help you make an educated decision about your surgical journey. To book your consultation or learn more about (rhytidectomy) facelift recovery, contact our team in Melbourne.