How long should I used ice pads post SMAS facelift? (photo)

These are issues you need to speak to your facelift surgeon about as everyone has different protocols; generally I like warm compresses starting 3-4 days after surgery.

Post-operative advice differs from surgeon to surgeon. Cold compresses are sometimes preferable to ice packs because they produce less rebound circulation and associated swelling. They are also less likely to produce damage to the skin flaps. The amount of swelling, although scary is within normal range for a facelift and necklift procedure and you can expect a very good long term result. The skin elasticity will be sufficient to return to a good relationship with the SMAS layer that has been the main structure to support the changes. 

It is normal to have swelling after facelift for 3-6 weeks.   I'm not a big fan of ice over the skin because ice can decrease blood flow to the skin--which is not good.  Ice can help somewhat with swelling and pain, but you need to be very careful with using too much ice.  There are strict protocols for using ice on the skin (example:  15 min on per hour, with a protective layer over the skin).   You appear to be healing nicely.  Good luck!

You look great!  Looking right on track for 4 days po. Swelling and bruising typically set in the most through day 3 post op. We encourage out patients to ice routinely at least for the first 3 days po and many of our facial aesthetic patients appreciate icing for the entire first week. Due to soft tissue swelling, your face will feel 'hard/firm' for a number of weeks. 

Every surgeon has their own recommendations regarding post-operative care after a facelift. My patients are instructed to use cold compresses (not ice packs) for no more than 48 hours after surgery. After this point, I don't see much benefit in using them, and don't want to delay the healing process. In most cases, bruising and swelling simply takes time to resolve.
All the best,

Thank you for your question.Here is a list of “Do’s and Don’ts” in my opinion I would advise my patients to help recovery:Do use a cool pack on the incisions as this will help reduce any residual fullness.Do continue with painkillers if required, as around 5% of patients will have some ear pain which will settle within a week or two. Do shower and hair wash daily.Do resume normal activities however avoid vigorous exercise or heavy lifting for 2 weeks post procedure.Don’t apply any make up, moisturiser or oils to the incision line until advised by us. Don’t allow pets of any variety to share a bed with you and avoid allowing pets near your face for the first four weeks after your procedure. Allowing pets near your face has the potential to result in an infection. However being vigilant will help reduce this risk.Do be vigilant with hand hygiene.Do notify us immediately if you have any concerns or notice any increased redness, heat around the incision or if you have any discharge from around the ear.Once you have seen your plastic surgeon for your follow up, they may advise on when you can start massaging the incision areas and the best technique to use. They may recommend the use of scar improvement oils such as Bio-oil.All the Best with your recovery!