Deep Plane Facelift Recovery Process and Timeline

There’s always a tradeoff when it comes to selecting a facial rejuvenation method. For non-surgical options like fillers and Botox, you won’t need to undergo recovery but you may not get the long-lasting results you want. On the other hand, a deep plane facelift can produce transformative results for as much as 10-15 years but requires a dedicated recovery period. Fortunately, you can better prepare for your recovery when you do a little research ahead of time. During a consultation, Dr. Kevin Sadati can help you understand what to expect from your deep plane facelift at our Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery, but here’s what to know in the meantime.

Two weeks before surgery

. When preparing for surgery, it is important to take certain precautions to minimize the risk of complications. Limit your alcohol intake and eat more protein and fruits reach in vitamin C. One important step is to discontinue certain supplements that can increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. Some supplements such as: Fish oil: Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which have anticoagulant properties. Vitamin E: Vitamin E can also act as a blood thinner and increase the risk of bleeding. Garlic, Ginger, Cinnamon, ginkgo biloba, St. John’s wort, and turmeric supplements have antiplatelet effects and can prolong bleeding time: Aspirin and Motrin should be discontinued before surgery to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding.

The Day of Surgery

Before surgery Dr. Sadati use Blue light therapy to reduce bacterial load. Since the deep plane facelift is performed using twilight sedation, you can expect fewer side effects after surgery than general anesthesia. After a brief monitoring period by our experienced, private medical team, you can return home. It’s important to rest once you arrive home – however, unlike with general anesthesia, you’ll have less chance of nausea and vomiting and able to eat soft food. Our team also prefers to use a nerve block during surgery, so you won’t experience discomfort. Most individuals prefer taking Tylenol for discomfort. 

The Day After Surgery

The day after your deep plane facelift you will be seen in our office for evaluation and removal of bandages. you’ll likely begin to experience more swelling and bruising. Discomfort may begin to arise at this time, but many patients are still satisfied with the nerve block. If you need additional pain management, Tylenol or ice packs are usually sufficient. We also recommend arnica Montana supplements to help manage swelling. You’ll likely follow up with our team to assess your incisions and discuss any concerns. At this point, you can now shower and gently wash your body, but your face and hair on the third day. taking care to keep your incisions dry afterward. Special cleaning solution and healing cream will be provided for you.  We also provide you with Yellow Light Therapy to reduce swelling and bruising.

The First Week

After a week of surgery, you can start to return to very light activities like taking a short walk. Once your incisions are healed, you can begin applying cosmetics to cover any bruising or redness. At this point, bruising and swelling will have likely improved, but you may still have some residual discomfort and tightness. We provide Yellow and Red-Light Therapy to reduce swelling and increase healing process. In addition, Hyperbaric Oxygen treatments are recommended to expedite healing process. Sutures are removed on 8^th day. Based on the extended of your surgery, you can return to office-based work, unless you don’t feel comfortable returning to public yet.

The Second Week

At two weeks after surgery, you’ll likely feel better. You can return to work now (unless your job is very physically demanding) and increase your activity level according to your plastic surgeon’s instructions. By now, you’ll begin to see noticeable deep plane facelift results and a significant reduction in bruising and swelling. We recommend beginning the use of a scar treatment to reduce any visible signs of your surgery.

One Month After Surgery

After one month, you can return to your normal scheduled activities including color your hair and social events. You can also return to your exercise regimen by this time except swimming, tennis. Although you may still notice some numbness or tightness, you’ll begin to see your full results emerge with a naturally refreshed and elegant look.

Six Months After Surgery

You’ll see the most dramatic results from your deep plane facelift at six months. If you’ve followed instructions and given yourself plenty of time to rest and recover, you can enjoy a dramatic transformation. Most deep plane facelift patients enjoy results for many years beyond this point, and our team can help you make the most of your stunning facial rejuvenation results.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re interested in learning more about the deep plane facelift recovery process, our board-certified plastic surgeons can help. To begin, contact our luxurious Newport Beach, CA office by calling or filling out our online contact form.